UPEI Panthers strengthen roster with impact forward Brett Bressette
The UPEI Panthers made a big splash this offseason by securing Brett Bressette, a standout forward from the Erie Otters. Known for his offensive skills, Bressette is set to make waves this upcoming season, bringing a new level of excitement and firepower to the Panthers’ lineup.
Bressette is the latest in a line of former Otters to don the Panthers jersey. Last year, the team added three former Otters—Noah Sedore, Elias Cohen, and Cameron Morton—to their roster, and all three made a significant impact throughout the season. The coaching staff and fans alike are hopeful that Bressette will follow in their footsteps and become another success story.
“Brett was a huge pickup for our team. He has the potential to add to the offence and strengthen our top six group,” said head coach Forbes MacPherson. “He’s proven his ability to score at the Major Junior level, and we believe he’ll help us spread the scoring around, adding depth to our lineup.”
In four seasons with Erie, the 21-year-old from Midland, Ontario, showcased his playmaking abilities time and time again, collecting 52 goals and 78 assists in 173 games. But Bressette is more than just numbers on a stat sheet—he is also a leader. In his final season with the Otters, he earned an “A” and played a key role in guiding the team to its first playoff appearance since the 2019–2020 campaign.
“My greatest strength is probably my hockey IQ. I believe I can think the game well, create offence, and be a team player,” said the five-foot-nine, 174-pound forward. “I think we did a really good job changing the culture in Erie and creating a winning environment after a couple of tough years, and I hope to bring that same energy to UPEI.”
Bressette said he’s excited about joining the Panthers and is eager to make an immediate impact.
“I’m really looking forward to being part of this team. I hope I can contribute right away and make a difference.”
He will have some support along the way as he reunites with former Erie teammates Sedore, Cohen, Morton, and current Panthers captain Kurtis Henry.
“Those guys played a huge part in my decision to come to Prince Edward Island,” Bressette shared. “We built great chemistry on the ice in Erie, so the opportunity to play with them again and create something special made this an easy choice.”