Jean-Gabriel Pageau Bio
Jean-Gabriel Pageau is a Canadian professional ice hockey player who is a centre for the New York Islanders of the National Hockey League (NHL). He was selected by the Ottawa Senators in the fourth round, 96th overall, of the 2011 NHL entry draft with whom he spent the first part of his NHL career prior to his trade to the Islanders in 2020. Pageau has established himself as a key player in the league, known for his scoring ability and versatility on the ice.
Early Life and Background
Jean-Gabriel Pageau was born on November 11, 1992, in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. He grew up in the nearby city of Hull, Quebec, where he was first introduced to ice hockey. As a youth, he participated in the 2005 Quebec International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament, representing a minor ice hockey team from Gatineau. This early exposure to competitive hockey helped shape his passion for the sport and set him on a path toward a professional career. Pageau later played for the Gatineau Olympiques and the Chicoutimi Saguenéens in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), where he honed his skills and gained valuable experience.
Path to Hockey
Pageau’s journey to the NHL began with his selection by the Ottawa Senators in the 2011 NHL entry draft. He started his professional career in the 2012–13 season with the Senators’ American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Binghamton Senators. During his time in the AHL, he showcased his talent by scoring seven goals and accumulating 29 points in 69 games. His performance earned him a call-up to the NHL, where he made his debut with the Ottawa Senators on April 10, 2013. Pageau’s early career was marked by significant achievements, including a memorable playoff performance where he scored a hat-trick in a game against the Montreal Canadiens, becoming only the second player in Senators history to achieve this feat in the playoffs.
Jean-Gabriel Pageau Career
Early Career (2012–2015)
Pageau’s early years with the Ottawa Senators were characterized by a gradual increase in playing time and responsibility. He appeared in parts of the 2013–14 and 2014–15 seasons, but it was under head coach Dave Cameron that he truly began to shine. In the 2015–16 season, Pageau played in all 82 games, achieving career highs with 19 goals, 24 assists, and 43 points. He also led the NHL in short-handed goals that season, demonstrating his ability to contribute in various game situations.
Breakthrough (2016–2020)
Pageau’s breakthrough moment came during the 2017 playoffs when he scored four goals in a single game against the New York Rangers, including the game-winner in double overtime. This performance solidified his reputation as a clutch player in high-pressure situations. In the 2019–20 season, he emerged as the Senators’ top line center, scoring a career-high 24 goals and 40 points in just 60 games.
Notable Works and Milestones
Pageau’s signature moments include his playoff heroics and his consistent scoring ability. He was recognized for his contributions to the team with a new three-year contract worth $9.3 million in July 2017.
Jean-Gabriel Pageau Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Jean-Gabriel Pageau has received various nominations for his outstanding performances, particularly during playoff seasons where he has excelled.
Jean-Gabriel Pageau Awards Won
Pageau has achieved significant recognition in his career, including winning the Bob Nystrom Award for the 2020–21 season, which is awarded to the New York Islanders player who best exemplifies leadership, hustle, and dedication.
Jean-Gabriel Pageau Family
Information regarding Jean-Gabriel Pageau’s family is not publicly available.
Personal Life
Jean-Gabriel Pageau maintains a low profile regarding his personal life, focusing primarily on his professional career. He is known for his dedication to the sport and his commitment to his team.
