Nathan Beaulieu's journey in professional hockey began when he was drafted 17th overall by the Montreal Canadiens in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. Known for his defensive skills and ability to move the puck, Beaulieu spent several seasons developing his game with the Canadiens. He made his NHL debut during the 2012-2013 season, gradually earning more ice time and responsibility on the blue line.
Throughout his tenure with Montreal, Beaulieu was recognized for his skating ability and offensive potential from the back end. He played a total of 225 games with the Canadiens, scoring 7 goals and adding 53 assists. His time in Montreal saw him participate in several playoff runs, where he gained valuable experience in high-pressure situations.
In June 2017, Beaulieu was traded to the Buffalo Sabres, where he continued to develop his game. His stint with the Sabres lasted two seasons, during which he played 131 games and recorded 4 goals and 20 assists. While in Buffalo, Beaulieu faced challenges, including injuries and competition for playing time, but he remained a steady presence on the team's defense.
Beaulieu's career took another turn in February 2019 when he was traded to the Winnipeg Jets. With the Jets, he found a role as a reliable depth defenseman, contributing to the team's defensive efforts. Over the course of his time in Winnipeg, Beaulieu played 105 games, tallying 1 goal and 16 assists. His physical style of play and willingness to block shots were assets to the Jets' defensive corps.
In March 2022, Beaulieu was traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he joined the team for the remainder of the season. Although his time with the Penguins was brief, he added depth to their defensive lineup as they prepared for the playoffs.
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