Former NHL enforcer Chris Simon has died at age 52
The NHL lost a complex figure this week with the passing of Chris Simon at the age of 52. News broke on March 19th, 2024, that Simon died in his hometown of Wawa, Ontario. While the cause of death is not yet public, the hockey world is mourning a player whose career was defined by both on-ice toughness and off-ice controversy.
Enforcer Extraordinaire
Standing at 6’4″ and weighing over 220 pounds, Chris Simon was a force to be reckoned with. He carved out a niche for himself in the NHL as an enforcer, a player whose primary role was to deter opponents from taking liberties with his team’s star players. Feared for his willingness to drop the gloves, Simon racked up an astonishing 1,824 penalty minutes over his 15-year NHL career, ranking him 67th all-time in league history.
A Champion’s Pedigree
Despite his reputation as a fighter, Simon also brought a surprising offensive touch to the game. He notched 148 goals and 201 assists in 857 regular season and playoff games. He was even part of a Stanley Cup winning team with the Colorado Avalanche in 1996, and skated alongside teams that reached the Stanley Cup Finals with the Washington Capitals in 1998 and the Calgary Flames in 2004.
Chris Simon’s journey in the NHL was marked by his unwavering dedication to his teammates and his ability to stand up for them when needed. Over 15 seasons, he played for various teams including the Quebec Nordiques/Colorado Avalanche, Washington Capitals, Chicago Blackhawks, New York Rangers, Calgary Flames, New York Islanders, and Minnesota Wild. His imposing presence on the ice, coupled with his scoring prowess, made him a force to be reckoned with.
A Shadowed Legacy
Simon’s legacy is undeniably tarnished by a series of on-ice incidents that left many questioning his temperament. Most notably, a 2007 attack on New York Islanders forward Ryan Hollweg resulted in a suspension that effectively ended his career. The incident, which involved multiple punches to the head of an unsuspecting Hollweg, sparked discussions about the role of enforcers in the NHL and the sometimes-brutal consequences of unchecked aggression.
Beyond the Fights
However, to paint Simon as a one-dimensional goon would be a disservice. Teammates spoke of his fierce loyalty and dedication in the locker room. He was known for his work ethic and his ability to motivate his fellow players. The outpouring of grief from former teammates suggests a complex individual who, while flawed, was also a valued member of the teams he played for.
The Enforcer’s Role: Evolving or Extinct?
The death of Chris Simon reignites the debate about the role of enforcers in today’s NHL. With an increased focus on player safety and the dangers of head injuries, the league has taken steps to reduce fighting. Some argue that enforcers are a relic of a bygone era, while others believe they still serve a purpose in protecting star players and providing an element of deterrence.
Life After Hockey
Following his NHL suspension, Simon kept a relatively low profile. Details about his post-hockey life are scarce. The news of his passing leaves many wondering about the challenges he may have faced after leaving the sport.
Remembering Chris Simon
Chris Simon’s story is a cautionary tale of the physical and mental toll that a hockey career can take. He was a talented player who brought grit and determination to the ice. However, his legacy is forever intertwined with the violent aspects of the sport he loved. As the NHL continues to grapple with the role of fighting, the story of Chris Simon serves as a reminder of the human cost behind the seemingly simple spectacle of hockey’s enforcers.
