Bizier returns after impactful debut stretch
The Trois-Rivières Lions have finalized a key piece of their forward group, confirming the return of Mathieu Bizier for the 2026–27 season. The 25-year-old made an immediate impression after arriving in March, producing 15 points in 21 games to close out the campaign. He opened his professional tenure in confident fashion, recording at least a point in each of his first five ECHL appearances with Trois-Rivières.
The club’s announcement underscores a methodical start to roster construction: the Lions now count four forwards and three defencemen under contract for the coming year. While full training camp details have yet to be released, retaining Bizier signals continuity in the offensive core that energized Colisée Vidéotron down the stretch.
Deep amateur résumé before turning pro
Bizier arrives with a substantial track record at both major junior and university levels. In the QMJHL, he skated for the Rimouski Océanic and Gatineau Olympiques, totalling 184 points in 289 regular-season games, plus 16 points in 23 playoff contests. He then spent four seasons in U Sports with Concordia University, amassing 99 points in 103 games. His post-season production with the Stingers stood out as well, with 19 points in 18 playoff games.
His time at Concordia coincided with notable team and individual accolades. The Stingers captured the OUA championship in 2025, and Bizier earned selection to the U Sports University All-Star Team. He also won back-to-back Randy Gregg Awards in 2025 and 2026, recognizing outstanding achievement as a student-athlete. Internationally, he contributed to Canada’s Universiade Cup win in 2025, posting five points in seven games.
What the signing means for Trois-Rivières
For supporters in Mauricie, the re-signing delivers a familiar face who demonstrated finish, pace and adaptability in a short window last spring. With ECHL rosters turning over each off-season, landing a forward already acclimated to the system should help stabilize early-season line combinations and special-teams roles. Bizier’s blend of junior pedigree and university polish also fits a league where player development and rapid adjustments are routine.
The Lions’ public confirmation arrived alongside a team message that highlighted the winger’s quick impact after joining mid-season. The club’s social post welcomed him back and referenced his 15-point output, a nod to both production and expectations heading into camp.
“Bon retour parmi nous, Biz!”
While details on line deployment and ice-time will be settled in camp, Bizier’s record suggests versatility. He found ways to contribute in consecutive competitive environments—from a heavy QMJHL slate to a demanding U Sports schedule—before transitioning effectively to the ECHL. That trajectory positions him to shoulder minutes and support a leadership-by-example model in Trois-Rivières.
At a glance: Bizier’s path to the Lions
| Level/Team | Regular Season | Playoffs | Notable Honours |
|---|---|---|---|
| QMJHL (Rimouski, Gatineau) | 184 pts / 289 GP | 16 pts / 23 GP | — |
| U Sports (Concordia) | 99 pts / 103 GP | 19 pts / 18 GP | OUA title (2025), U Sports University All-Star |
| International (Canada) | — | — | Universiade Cup winner (2025) |
| ECHL (Trois-Rivières) | 15 pts / 21 GP | — | Point streak in first five pro games |
What’s next in roster build
With four forwards and three defencemen already in place, the Lions are gradually assembling their 2026–27 group. Additional signings will determine how coaching staff balances veteran presence with emerging talent. Local fans will watch for moves that complement Bizier’s strengths—finishing in tight areas, quick touches off the rush, and sustained pressure below the dots.
As the off-season continues, the club’s incremental approach suggests more announcements to come. For now, securing Bizier gives Trois-Rivières a proven contributor who gained traction quickly at the pro level and now has a full season to extend that form.
- Contract confirmed for 2026–27, reinforcing the forward corps.
- Immediate impact last spring: 15 points in 21 ECHL games, five-game opening point streak.
- Winning background from QMJHL, U Sports, and the 2025 Universiade.
