The Agile Group Adelaide Adrenaline hope they've added a highly-skilled, point-producing defensemen with French Canadian blue liner Alexandre Gauthier.

Gauthier is coming off a season in the Senior AAA Hockey League of Quebec (LHSAAAQ). He had 31 points in 21 games. He was second on his team in scoring and second among all defensemen in the league in points.

The LHSAAAQ was home to 2018 Australian scoring champion Pier-Olivier Grandmaison. The sniper had 67 points for the Perth Thunder last season.

In fact, it was Grandmaison who put Gauthier in touch with Adelaide. 

He says based on what he's seen, and his own dominant experience in the league, that Gauthier is going to be a hit in the AIHL.

"Alex will be successful in Australia. He has all the tools. He's the perfect fit for the style needed in Australia. He is offensive, defensive and physical," says Grandmaison.

Grandmaison adds that his shot will be a "weapon" from the blue line. That should help the Adrenaline power play.

"The best thing about Alex is he is a great guy. He enjoys the game, loves hockey and is a great leader in the game. The fans will really like him because he is exciting on the ice and takes pride in wherever he plays," he says. 

Many great AIHL teams have had a versatile defenseman like Gauthier on their rosters. The need to eat valuable minutes, play two ends of the rink, and generate offense from the blue line is important.

Gauthier had a remarkable season in Quebec in 2015 when he put up 21 goals and 51 assists (75 points) in just 51 games. That led all defenseman and was among league leaders in points. 

Check out this video of some of Alex's goals before he comes over. He controls the play, has a great shot, vision and will help push the tempo. He also throws the body around.

Coming to Australia is something that excites Gauthier, who is playing outside Quebec for the first time. Gauthier has extensive experience playing Major Junior Hockey with some of the best players in the world.

"I've heard a lot of good things about the people and culture in Australia," says Gauthier. "It was a dream for me when I found out I could go. I am super excited for the experience coming up." 

Gauthier also says he can expect fans to see a versatile player. 

"I like to bring offence but I also take pride in being responsible defensively," he says.

Gauthier adds he is excited to meet the fans of Adelaide and has heard great things about the city and people. 

"Come and say hi to me! As long as you bring a positive energy and smile we can talk about whatever," he says.

Alexandre is scheduled to arrive early next week, in time for Adelaide's season opener on April 20 in Melbourne. Fans can meet him for the first time on April 27 vs. the CBR Brave. 

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QUICK SHOTS WITH ALEXANDRE GAUTHIER

Favourite pre game meal? Pasta.

Most played on Spotify right now? Travis Scott.

Favourite city, so far? Tulum.

Favourite NHL team? Montreal Canadiens.

Favourite NHL player? Nick Lidstrom

Who will win the Stanley Cup? Tampa Bay Lightning

What is the best meal you can cook? I'm not sure...but I am a good cook!