Former Michigan Wolverine and Golden Knights forward Brendan Brisson could be headed for an expanded role this season
When free agents Jonathan Marchessault, Chandler Stephenson, Michael Amadio, William Carrier and Anthony Mantha walked out the door this past Monday it created holes in the Golden Knight's lineup that will certainly need to be filled. While the additions of forwards Alexander Holtz and Victor Olofsson will help, there is a home-grown Golden Knight's draft pick that could be headed for an increased role next season; Brendan Brisson.
Brisson was selected 29th overall in the 2020 NHL draft out of Michigan University. The son of premier NHL agent, Pat Brisson, is widely viewed as the Knight's top prospect, along with David Edstrom, the Knight's 1st round selection in the 2023 NHL draft. Brisson played two seasons for the Wolverines, finishing 2nd in scoring with 42 points in 38 games behind Matty Beniers, the 2023 Calder Winner, in his last season in the program before turning pro at the end of his Sophomore year in 21-22. After turning pro, Brisson joined the Golden Knights AHL affiliate, the Henderson Silver Knights scoring 8 points in 7 games.
Brisson made his NHL debut this past season after scoring 18 goals in 58 games for Henderson. Brisson made his NHL debut on January 15th, 2024 in a game against the Nashville Predators. Brisson went on to score his 1st NHL goal five days later against the Pittsburgh Penguins. In total, Brisson played 15 games at the NHL level last season that saw the Manhattan Beach, CA native score 8 points.
Brisson will likely fight for a top in the top six with new acquisitions Alexander Holtz and Victor Olofsson. Brisson has been able to produce at every level that he's played in during his career so far; whether it be the USHL, NCAA or the AHL. If Brisson can continue that trend it would be a huge lift for the Golden Knights this coming season.