Eurolanche

Avalanche Signs Beauchemin

Beauchemin, 35, appeared in 64 games for the Anaheim Ducks this past season, tallying 23 points (11g/12a) while averaging a team-high 22:44 of ice time per game. He finished second on the Ducks in plus/minus rating (+17) and blocked shots (107-tied), while his career-high 11 goals ranked second among Anaheim defensemen. The Sorel, Quebec, native went on to skate in all 16 postseason contests for the Ducks, averaging a team-best 25:24 of ice time with nine points (9a).

“Francois brings toughness, leadership and a veteran presence to our blue line,” said Avalanche Executive Vice President/General Manager Joe Sakic. “We are excited to have him as part of our defense for the next three seasons.”

Selected by Montreal in the third round (75th overall) of the 1998 Entry Draft, Beauchemin has appeared in 673 career NHL games with Montreal, Columbus, Anaheim and Toronto. The 6-foot-1, 208-pound defenseman has recorded 219 points (60g/159a) with a +23 plus/minus rating and 394 penalty minutes. Beauchemin, who won a Stanley Cup with the Ducks in 2006-07, has also skated in 97 career playoff games, registering 39 points (10g/29a). He was named to the NHL’s Second All-Star Team in 2012-13 after putting up 24 points (6g/18a) with a +19 rating in 48 games during the shortened season for Anaheim.

Prior to turning pro, Beauchemin (boh-sheh-MEH) played in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, where he was named to the QMJHL All-Rookie Team with Laval in 1996-97 and QMJHL Second All-Star Team with Acadie-Bathurst/Moncton in 1999-2000. 

--Avalanche Press Release--