Francis Bouillon is a retired Canadian professional ice hockey player who played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL) for over a decade. He was born on October 17, 1975, in New York City, but grew up in Quebec, Canada. Bouillon began his hockey career in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) with the Laval Titan in 1992. He played for the Titan for three seasons before being drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in the third round of the 1994 NHL Entry Draft.
Bouillon made his NHL debut with the Canadiens in the 1999-2000 season and quickly established himself as a reliable defenseman. He was known for his physical play, shot-blocking ability, and leadership skills. Bouillon played for the Canadiens for ten seasons, from 1999 to 2009, and was a fan favorite for his hard work and dedication to the team.
In 2009, Bouillon signed as a free agent with the Nashville Predators, where he played for two seasons. He then returned to Montreal for the 2011-2012 season, where he played for two more seasons before retiring in 2014. Bouillon played a total of 776 NHL games, scoring 32 goals and 101 assists for 133 points. He also played in 53 playoff games, scoring two goals and six assists for eight points.
Bouillon was known for his toughness and willingness to play through injuries. He suffered several injuries throughout his career, including a broken foot, a broken hand, and a torn ACL. Despite these setbacks, he always returned to the ice as soon as possible and continued to play at a high level.
Off the ice, Bouillon was known for his charitable work and community involvement. He was a regular participant in the Canadiens' annual blood drive and was involved in several other charitable organizations. He was also known for his friendly and approachable personality, and was a popular figure among fans and teammates alike.
In conclusion, Francis Bouillon had a successful career as a defenseman in the NHL, playing for over a decade and earning a reputation as a tough and reliable player. He was a fan favorite in Montreal and was respected throughout the league for his leadership and work ethic. Bouillon's dedication to the game and his community involvement make him a role model for young players and fans alike.
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