Éric Bélanger

Éric Bélanger, born on December sixteenth, nineteen seventy-seven, is a distinguished Canadian former professional ice hockey player. Throughout his career, he primarily played as a centre in the National Hockey League (NHL), showcasing his skills with several teams including the Los Angeles Kings, Carolina Hurricanes, Atlanta Thrashers, Minnesota Wild, Washington Capitals, Phoenix Coyotes, and Edmonton Oilers.

Drafted in the fourth round as the ninety-sixth overall pick in the nineteen ninety-six NHL entry draft by the Los Angeles Kings, Bélanger made a significant impact in the league. His journey through various franchises allowed him to develop a reputation as a reliable player, contributing to his teams both offensively and defensively.

After retiring from professional play, Bélanger transitioned into coaching. In twenty twenty-one, he was appointed as the first head coach of the Trois-Rivières Lions, an expansion team in the ECHL that is affiliated with the Montreal Canadiens. His coaching career also includes a role as an assistant coach for the UQTR Patriotes men's ice hockey team, where he continues to influence the next generation of players.