Chris Simon, Canadian ice hockey player

Christopher J. Simon, born on January 30, 1972, is a distinguished Canadian former professional ice hockey left winger whose extensive career spanned an impressive 20 seasons across two of the world's premier hockey leagues. Renowned for his physically imposing presence and gritty style of play, Simon was a prominent figure on the ice, contributing both as a power forward and an enforcer throughout his long tenure.

Christopher Simon's NHL Career: A Blend of Power and Controversy

Simon's journey in the National Hockey League (NHL) comprised 15 seasons, beginning after he was drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers in the second round, 25th overall, of the 1990 NHL Entry Draft. Over his NHL career, he suited up for numerous teams, including the Quebec Nordiques (where he won a Stanley Cup in 1996 after the franchise relocated and became the Colorado Avalanche), the Washington Capitals, Calgary Flames, New Jersey Devils, New York Rangers, Minnesota Wild, and New York Islanders. While primarily recognized for his formidable physical play and willingness to drop the gloves, Simon also demonstrated periods of significant offensive contribution, particularly with the Capitals, where he achieved career highs in goals and points, showcasing his ability to blend toughness with scoring touch. His role often involved protecting teammates and providing an intimidating presence, making him a valuable asset for the physicality he brought to the ice.

Disciplinary Record and Suspensions

A notable aspect of Christopher Simon's NHL career was his extensive disciplinary history. Throughout his time in the league, he accumulated a total of 65 games in suspensions due to various on-ice infractions and disciplinary reasons, a figure that underscores his reputation for aggressive play. These suspensions highlight the fine line Simon often walked between effective physical play and actions deemed outside the rules. Among his most significant penalties were two lengthy suspensions in the 2007-08 season: a 25-game ban for cross-checking then-New York Rangers forward Ryan Hollweg in March 2007, and a subsequent 30-game suspension in December 2007 for stomping on the leg of then-Pittsburgh Penguins forward Jarkko Ruutu. These incidents were among the longest suspensions issued by the NHL at the time, drawing significant attention to player safety and on-ice conduct. His substantial career penalty minutes further reflect his hard-nosed playing style.

Transition to the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL)

Following his extensive NHL career, Simon transitioned to the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL), where he continued to play professionally for five additional seasons. This move allowed him to extend his playing career in a high-level league overseas. He notably played for Vityaz Chekhov, where he maintained his physical style of play and provided veteran leadership. His final professional season was with Metallurg Novokuznetsk of the KHL, where he concluded his remarkable 20-year professional ice hockey journey, leaving behind a legacy defined by both his robust playing style and his complex disciplinary record.

Frequently Asked Questions About Christopher Simon

What was Christopher Simon's primary playing style?

Christopher Simon was primarily known as a powerful and intimidating left winger who blended the roles of a power forward and an enforcer. He was recognized for his physical play, willingness to engage in fights, and ability to protect teammates, though he also showed periods of significant offensive production.

How many seasons did Christopher Simon play professionally?

Christopher Simon played a remarkable 20 seasons of professional ice hockey. This included 15 seasons in the National Hockey League (NHL) and an additional 5 seasons in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).

What were some of Christopher Simon's most notable disciplinary issues in the NHL?

Throughout his NHL career, Christopher Simon accumulated a total of 65 games in suspensions for various disciplinary reasons. His most prominent suspensions included a 25-game ban for cross-checking Ryan Hollweg in March 2007 and a 30-game suspension for stomping on Jarkko Ruutu in December 2007, both incidents drawing significant league attention.

Which major professional teams did Christopher Simon play for during his career?

In the NHL, Christopher Simon played for teams such as the Quebec Nordiques/Colorado Avalanche, Washington Capitals, Calgary Flames, New Jersey Devils, New York Rangers, Minnesota Wild, and New York Islanders. In the KHL, he played for Vityaz Chekhov and Metallurg Novokuznetsk, where he finished his professional career.