History of Paul Bissonnette in Timeline
Paul Bissonnette, known as "Biz Nasty," is a Canadian former professional ice hockey player. He played in the NHL for the Pittsburgh Penguins and Phoenix Coyotes. While he didn't achieve significant on-ice success in the NHL, Bissonnette gained popularity through his social media presence and engaging personality. He cultivated a large following on Twitter with his humorous and often irreverent commentary on hockey and everyday life. This online presence translated into media opportunities, including a podcast and broadcasting roles, showcasing his ability to connect with fans beyond the game. After retiring from professional hockey, Bissonnette continued to be involved in the sport as a commentator and analyst, further solidifying his place as a prominent media figure.
March 11, 1985: Birth of Paul Bissonnette
Paul Albert Bissonnette, nicknamed "Biz Nasty," was born on March 11, 1985.
2001: Drafted into the OHL
In 2001, at the age of 16, Bissonnette was drafted 31st overall by the North Bay Centennials in the OHL Priority Selection. He played 57 games, scoring three goals and three assists.
2003: Drafted into the NHL
Bissonnette was drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the fourth round, 121st overall, of the 2003 NHL Entry Draft while playing for the Saginaw Spirit.
2003: Co-captain of the Spirit and Gold Medal
In 2003, Bissonnette was named co-captain of the Saginaw Spirit and was part of the Canadian under-18 team that won gold at the Nations Cup. He was also named Team Orr player of the game at the Home Hardware Top Prospects Game, scoring a goal and fighting Dion Phaneuf.
2004: Saginaw Spirit Captain and Trade to Owen Sound Attack
During the 2003-2004 season, Bissonnette served as the Spirit's captain and finished ninth in points. He was later traded to the Owen Sound Attack during the 2004-2005 season.
November 12, 2005: First Professional Fight
On November 12, 2005, Bissonnette had his first professional fight against Jordan Smith of the Portland Pirates.
February 25, 2006: First Professional Goal
Bissonnette scored his first professional goal in the AHL on February 25, 2006, against Maxime Ouellet of the Manitoba Moose.
2007: Recalled to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton and Two-Time ECHL All-Star
In 2007, after 22 games with the Nailers, Bissonnette was recalled to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. During his time in Wheeling, he was named to the ECHL All-Star game twice.
October 16, 2008: First NHL Fight
On October 16, 2008, Bissonnette had his first NHL fight against Matt Bradley of the Washington Capitals.
January 13, 2009: First NHL Point
Bissonnette recorded his first NHL point on January 13, 2009, assisting on a goal by Tyler Kennedy against the Philadelphia Flyers.
October 1, 2009: Claimed by Phoenix Coyotes
Bissonnette was claimed off waivers by the Phoenix Coyotes on October 1, 2009, after failing to make the Penguins' NHL roster.
October 5, 2011: Contract Extension with Coyotes
On October 5, 2011, Bissonnette signed a two-year contract extension with the Phoenix Coyotes.
November 1, 2012: Signs with Cardiff Devils
During the 2012-13 NHL lockout, Bissonnette signed with the Cardiff Devils of the EIHL on November 1, 2012.
2013: Leaves Coyotes
Bissonnette left the Coyotes organization after the 2013-14 season.
September 16, 2014: Tryout with St. Louis Blues
On September 16, 2014, Bissonnette accepted a tryout agreement with the St. Louis Blues.
February 3, 2015: Signs with Manchester Monarchs
On February 3, 2015, the Manchester Monarchs signed Bissonnette to an AHL contract.
July 8, 2015: Signs with Ontario Reign
Bissonnette signed a one-year contract with the Ontario Reign on July 8, 2015.
July 6, 2016: Re-signs with Ontario Reign
Bissonnette re-signed with the Ontario Reign on July 6, 2016.
June 24, 2017: Joins Coyotes Radio Booth and Retires
On June 24, 2017, Bissonnette joined the Coyotes' radio booth as a color commentator. He officially retired from professional hockey on September 7, 2017.
April 11, 2018: Joins Spittin' Chiclets Podcast
Bissonnette joined Barstool Sports' podcast, Spittin' Chiclets, on April 11, 2018.
February 2019: Partners with CaniBrands
In February 2019, Bissonnette partnered with CaniBrands as a Sports and Media Ambassador.
2021: Joins NHL on TNT
In 2021, Bissonnette joined Turner Sports as an analyst for the NHL on TNT.