Former Wild forward Chris Simon dies at 52
Former Minnesota Wild forward Chris Simon, who spent 15 seasons in the NHL, died on Monday. He was 52.
The NHL Players' Association said the former NHL enforcer died in his hometown of Wawa, Ontario Monday night. A cause of death has not been provided as of Tuesday evening.
Simon spent part of the final season of his career with the Wild in 2007-08, when the Wild won their first Northwest Division title. Simon only played 10 games that season and did not register a point.
Simon helped the Colorado Avalanche win their first Stanley Cup title during the 1995-96 season. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers in the second round of the 1990 draft.
He also spent time with the Quebec Nordiques, Washington Capitals, Chicago Blackhawks, New York Rangers, Calgary Flames and New York Islanders.
"Chris was never afraid to stand up for his teammates, and played a key role in the dressing room. He was a beloved friend, father, brother, and son," the NHL Alumni Association posted on social media.
New York Islanders left wing Chris Simon (12) celebrates with teammates against the Carolina Hurricanes at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Uniondale, N.Y., on Oct. 21, 2006.
Lou Capozzola / USA TODAY NETWORK
