Tobie Bisson, The Trusted Player

AHL teams are no stranger to making numerous lineup changes in an offseason. The vast majority of contracts are signed for one season. By signing a second agreement with the Rocket, Tobie Bisson has seen his role grow within the Montreal Canadiens’ club affiliate. Born in Rosemere, only 20 minutes from Place Bell, he played all of his minor hockey on the North Shore of Montreal.

After a stint in the QMJHL with Baie-Comeau, Cape Breton and Blainville-Boisbriand, the big defenceman had a choice to make: pro hockey or the University of Moncton. After a short reflection, the choice was made to try his luck at the pro level. A choice he has not regretted.

“I really thought about going to university, but I got some attention from pro teams at the end of my last junior year and made a gut decision. It’s a big decision when you come out of junior, but I gave myself a chance.”

Never drafted in the NHL, Tobie Bisson started his professional career in the ECHL with the Cyclones. After playing two seasons in Cincinnati (+ 1 AHL game with the Rochester Americans), he joined the Laval Rocket for the 2020-21 season. He reunited with Joel Bouchard and Daniel Jacob, under whom he had played with the Armada.

His progression was impressive. He quickly became a pillar in the Rocket’s defensive brigade in addition to exploiting his offensive instincts which made him the defenceman with the best +/- ratio on the team (+17) in 2020-21.

Tobie Bisson knows what makes him successful. A true defensive defenceman (he even earned that title in the 2017-18 QMJHL season), he knows his role and executes it in exemplary fashion.

“I know my defensive game is a crucial part of my arsenal. It’s the thing that makes me the player I am and give me success as a professional.” 

Again this season, he is one of the most trusted men of the coaching staff. His reliability, stability at the blue line and quick decision-making make him an ideal d-man for Rocket defencemen coach Kelly Buchberger.

“He can play in all situations; he’s a very versatile player and has all the qualities of a good defenceman. He plays the right way every time we put him on the ice. He has a passion for the game that is unmatched and he loves being on the ice during important situations.”

Until last Wednesday’s game (March 2), Tobie Paquette-Bisson was the last player on the team to not miss a game this season.