Biography
Simon Després, born on July 27, 1991, in LaSalle, Quebec, is a former professional ice hockey defenseman from Canada. He was selected in the second round, 30th overall, by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. Després began his junior career with the Saint John Sea Dogs in the QMJHL, where he showcased his offensive and defensive skills, contributing to the team's success during his tenure.
Després made his NHL debut with the Pittsburgh Penguins during the 2011-2012 season and went on to play in several seasons with the team, contributing to their playoff runs. He was part of the Penguins roster when they won the Stanley Cup in 2016, further solidifying his legacy in the league. After his time with Pittsburgh, he had stints with the Anaheim Ducks and the Professional Hockey League, continuing to demonstrate his versatility and skill as a defenseman.
Throughout his career, Després was known for his strong two-way play and ability to move the puck effectively from the back end. Despite facing injury challenges that impacted his playing time, his contributions to his teams have left a lasting impression, particularly noted for his role in the Penguins' championship season. After retiring from professional play, Després remains a respected figure in the hockey community, exemplifying the dedication and skill characteristic of Canadian hockey players.