Frédérik Gauthier

Frédérik Gauthier (born April 26, 1995) is a Canadian professional ice hockey centre who plays for HC Ajoie of the National League (NL). Gauthier was selected by the Toronto Maple Leafs of the National Hockey League (NHL) in the first round, 21st overall, of the 2013 NHL Entry Draft. He previously spent three years with the Rimouski Océanic in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL). During his developmental years with the Maple Leafs' American Hockey League affiliate, the Toronto Marlies, he helped them clinch their first Calder Cup in franchise history.

A native of Quebec, Gauthier developed in its local minor ice hockey programs and intended to pursue a collegiate career rather than the QMJHL. After his selection by the Océanic in the QMJHL and Youngstown Phantoms in the United States Hockey League, he was encouraged by Sidney Crosby to pursue a career in his native province. During his tenure with the team, Gauthier competed for Team Canada at various international tournaments. He won a gold medal at the 2013 IIHF World U18 Championships and 2015 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships.