Antoine Roussel, a French professional ice hockey player, is known for his gritty playing style and tenacity on the ice. Born on November 21, 1989, in Roubaix, France, Roussel's journey to the NHL was unconventional, as he was not drafted. Instead, he worked his way up through various leagues, showcasing his determination and skill.
Roussel began his North American career in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) with the Chicoutimi Saguenéens. His time in the QMJHL helped him develop his game and adapt to the North American style of play. After his junior career, he spent time in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Providence Bruins and the Chicago Wolves, honing his skills and gaining valuable experience.
In 2012, Roussel signed a contract with the Dallas Stars, marking the beginning of his NHL career. He made his NHL debut during the 2012-2013 season and quickly became known for his aggressive play and ability to agitate opponents. Roussel's physical style and willingness to stand up for his teammates made him a fan favorite in Dallas.
Throughout his time with the Stars, Roussel was a consistent presence on the ice, contributing both offensively and defensively. He recorded his first NHL goal on February 1, 2013, against the Phoenix Coyotes. Over the next several seasons, Roussel became a reliable forward for the Stars, known for his penalty-killing abilities and knack for drawing penalties from opponents.
In 2018, Roussel signed a four-year contract with the Vancouver Canucks. His role with the Canucks was similar to his time in Dallas, where he provided energy and grit to the lineup. Roussel's time in Vancouver was marked by his strong work ethic and ability to contribute in various situations, whether it was on the penalty kill or providing secondary scoring.
Roussel's international career is also noteworthy, as he represented France in several IIHF World Championships. His participation in these tournaments helped raise the profile of French ice hockey and demonstrated his commitment to representing his country on the international stage.
After his stint with the Canucks, Roussel continued his NHL career with the Arizona Coyotes. His role with the Coyotes remained consistent with his previous teams, where he was valued for his physical play and ability to disrupt the opposition.
Throughout his career, Roussel was known for his ability to play with an edge, often drawing penalties and getting under the skin of his opponents. His style of play made him a valuable asset to his teams, providing energy and toughness on the ice. Despite not being a high-scoring forward, Roussel's contributions went beyond the scoresheet, as he was often tasked with shutting down opposing players and providing a physical presence.
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