Craig Simpson – Toronto Maple Leafs Legend Reflects on His Career 30 Years Later
Craig Simpson’s connection to the Toronto Maple Leafs is complex and historically significant. The former NHL player has a unique history with the franchise. During his draft year, he reportedly told the Leafs not to draft him, stating he would not show up if selected by Toronto. This tension between Simpson and the Maple Leafs organization creates an interesting backdrop to his current role as lead colour commentator for Hockey Night in Canada and Toronto Maple Leafs’ Sportsnet regional broadcasts.
Despite this past friction, Simpson now regularly provides analysis for Maple Leafs games as part of his broadcasting duties with Sportsnet. His career has evolved from being an NHL player who once avoided the Maple Leafs to becoming a voice that Toronto fans hear regularly analyzing their team’s performance. Simpson, who joined the broadcasting world and established himself on social media with over 19,000 followers on his Twitter account (@hnicsimmer), brings his playing experience to his commentary of Leafs games.
Contents
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Craig Simpson’s journey to professional hockey began in his hometown and extended through college hockey before he was selected in the first round of the NHL draft. His early development showcased the skills that would eventually make him one of the most efficient scorers in NHL history.
Junior Years and Draft Experience
Born on February 15, 1967, in London, Ontario, Simpson developed his hockey talents in his hometown. His exceptional play in junior hockey caught the attention of NHL scouts early on.
Simpson’s scoring touch and hockey intelligence made him a standout prospect in the 1985 NHL Entry Draft. The Pittsburgh Penguins selected him second overall in Round 1, making him one of the highest-drafted players that year.
His draft experience was the culmination of years of dedication to the sport. Scouts praised his shooting accuracy – a skill that would later define his professional career.
NCAA Contributions
Before turning professional, Simpson made significant contributions at the collegiate level. Playing for Michigan State University, he became a standout performer in the CCHA (Central Collegiate Hockey Association).
During his NCAA career, Simpson demonstrated remarkable scoring efficiency, foreshadowing his future NHL success. His college performance earned him recognition as one of the top collegiate players in the country.
His time at Michigan State helped Simpson refine his playing style and prepare for the rigors of professional hockey. Coaches noted his exceptional positioning and ability to find scoring opportunities – skills that translated well to his later NHL career.
NHL Career
Craig Simpson had a remarkable NHL career spanning nine seasons, where he became known for his scoring touch and playoff performances. He played for three different franchises and won multiple Stanley Cup championships.
Pittsburgh Penguins Tenure
Simpson began his NHL journey after being selected 2nd overall in the 1985 NHL Draft by the Pittsburgh Penguins. The London, Ontario native joined a rebuilding Penguins team that featured a young Mario Lemieux, who was quickly becoming the face of the franchise.
In his rookie season (1985-86), Simpson recorded 26 goals and 25 assists for 51 points in 76 games. A respectable debut that showed his scoring potential.
His sophomore campaign saw improved production, tallying 26 goals and 25 assists in 72 games. Simpson’s time with the Penguins was promising but brief, as midway through his third season, a significant trade would change the course of his career.
Simpson’s Penguins Statistics:
| Season | Games | Goals | Assists | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1985-86 | 76 | 26 | 25 | 51 |
| 1986-87 | 72 | 26 | 25 | 51 |
| 1987-88 | 21 | 13 | 13 | 26 |
Edmonton Oilers Glory
In November 1987, Simpson was traded to the Edmonton Oilers, joining one of hockey’s greatest dynasties. This move proved pivotal, as he became an integral piece of two Stanley Cup championship teams (1988, 1990).
Simpson’s best statistical season came in 1987-88, split between Pittsburgh and Edmonton, when he scored 56 goals and added 33 assists for 89 points. His playoff performance during the 1988 Cup run was exceptional, contributing 13 points in 19 games.
After Wayne Gretzky’s departure in 1988, Simpson helped the Oilers maintain their winning culture. He found chemistry playing alongside Mark Messier, Glenn Anderson, and Craig MacTavish.
The 1989-90 season showcased Simpson’s playoff prowess again as he netted 16 points in 22 games, helping Edmonton capture their fifth Stanley Cup in seven years.
Buffalo Sabres and Final Seasons
Simpson’s final NHL chapter began when the Oilers traded him to the Buffalo Sabres before the 1993-94 season. His time in Buffalo was unfortunately brief and hampered by injuries.
A persistent back injury limited Simpson to just 76 games over two seasons with the Sabres. Despite health challenges, he still managed to contribute 30 points during his shortened stint in Buffalo.
The once-prolific scorer was forced to retire prematurely at age 28 due to these back problems, ending what might have been an even more distinguished career. His final NHL totals included 247 goals and 250 assists for 497 points in 634 regular-season games.
Simpson’s career shooting percentage of 23.7% remains one of the highest in NHL history, showcasing his remarkable efficiency as a goal scorer. He also accumulated 68 points in 67 playoff games, highlighting his ability to elevate his play when it mattered most.
Post-Retirement Endeavors
After hanging up his skates in 1996, Craig Simpson quickly found a new way to stay connected to the game of hockey through broadcasting, becoming one of Canada’s most recognized hockey analysts.
Transition to Broadcasting
Craig Simpson made a seamless transition from the ice to the broadcast booth following his retirement from professional hockey. His journey in media began with CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada in 1998, where he served as a studio analyst.
Simpson’s deep understanding of the game and articulate communication style made him a natural fit for broadcasting. By 2007, he had moved from the studio to the booth, becoming a color commentator alongside play-by-play announcers.
His broadcasting career took a brief detour in 2003-2004 when he served as assistant coach for his former team, the Edmonton Oilers, before returning to his media role with renewed insights into the modern game.
Sports Media Career Highlights
Simpson has established himself as a prominent voice in hockey broadcasting with Rogers Sportsnet, where he works as a regular color commentator. His partnership with play-by-play commentator Jim Hughson became one of the most recognizable broadcasting duos in Canadian hockey.
In 2014, Simpson was part of the major NHL broadcast rights acquisition by Rogers, which signed a $5.2 billion, 12-year deal with the NHL. This agreement positioned him as a key analyst for national hockey coverage.
Simpson’s broadcasting resume includes:
- Main color commentator for Hockey Night in Canada
- Coverage of multiple Stanley Cup Finals
- Olympic hockey broadcasting experience
- Regular contributor to hockey analysis segments
His analytical approach and ability to break down complex plays have made him a respected voice among hockey fans across Canada.
On-Ice Achievements and Playing Style
Craig Simpson established himself as one of hockey’s most efficient scorers during his NHL career. His shooting accuracy and net-front presence became hallmarks of his playing style, particularly during his successful stint with the Edmonton Oilers.
Career Statistics
Simpson’s NHL journey spanned 10 seasons with impressive numbers that highlight his scoring efficiency. The greatest “sniper” in NHL history, Simpson maintains the highest shooting percentage in NHL history among players with significant careers.
His statistical profile shows remarkable consistency, especially during the Edmonton Oilers dynasty years:
| Season | Team | Games | Goals | Assists | Points | Shooting % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career | Multiple | 634 | 247 | 250 | 497 | 23.6% |
Simpson’s playoff performance proved even more impressive. He collected two Stanley Cup championships with the Edmonton Oilers, cementing his reputation as a clutch performer.
Playing primarily left wing (LW), Simpson thrived alongside superstar centers, using his positioning and hockey IQ to maximize scoring opportunities.
Signature Techniques and Performance
Simpson’s playing style centered around elite net-front presence and finishing ability. His remarkable shooting percentage wasn’t merely luck but resulted from disciplined shot selection and understanding high-percentage scoring areas.
Simpson possessed exceptional hand-eye coordination, allowing him to deflect pucks and convert rebounds efficiently. This skill made him particularly dangerous on power plays where he could establish position near the crease.
What separated Simpson from other forwards was his ability to find scoring positions without the puck. He rarely wasted energy on low-percentage plays, instead conserving effort for optimal scoring chances.
His playing profile with the Maple Leafs showed his versatility. While his time with Toronto proved controversial after reports he initially refused to play there, his on-ice performance remained professional and productive when healthy.
Legacy and Impact on Ice Hockey
Craig Simpson’s career, particularly his time with the Toronto Maple Leafs, has left a lasting mark on ice hockey. His exceptional scoring efficiency and leadership qualities continue to influence the sport at various levels.
Influence on Future Generations
Simpson’s remarkable shooting percentage stands as one of the highest in NHL history, making him a model for efficiency that young players study. His playing style—combining physicality with scoring touch—created a template for power forwards in subsequent NHL eras.
“Don’t waste a day on things that are unimportant,” Simpson often advised developing players, emphasizing mental preparation alongside physical skills.
Despite career-shortening back injuries, Simpson transitioned successfully to broadcasting, extending his influence beyond his playing days. His analytical approach to the game has educated countless viewers about hockey’s strategic elements.
Young players frequently cite Simpson’s ability to perform in high-pressure situations as inspiration, particularly his clutch playoff performances during Stanley Cup runs.
Contributions to the Toronto Maple Leafs
Simpson’s relationship with the Maple Leafs organization has a complicated history. Before the 1985 NHL Draft, there were reports that Simpson explicitly stated he didn’t want to play in Toronto, affecting his draft position.
While Simpson never suited up for the Maple Leafs during his playing career, his influence came later through broadcasting and hockey development initiatives in Ontario.
His analytical insights during Hockey Night in Canada broadcasts have given Leafs fans deeper understanding of their team’s systems and player development.
Simpson’s coaching expertise, developed after his playing career, has indirectly benefited Toronto’s hockey community through clinics and development programs he’s conducted in the greater Toronto area.
| Simpson Career Statistics | Total |
|---|---|
| NHL Seasons | 10 |
| Games Played | 634 |
| Goals | 247 |
| Stanley Cups | 2 |
| Career Shooting % | 23.7% |
Personal Life
Craig Simpson’s life outside of hockey reveals a multifaceted individual with strong family connections and community involvement. His journey beyond the rink showcases both personal relationships and dedication to giving back.
Family and Relationships
Craig Simpson was born on February 15, 1967, in London, Ontario, Canada. The former NHL star has experienced significant changes in his personal life over the years.
Simpson was previously married to Jamie Salé from 2012 to 2022. Salé is a well-known figure in Canadian figure skating circles. Their relationship attracted considerable attention in Canadian sports media.
Before his marriage to Salé, Simpson had other relationships, though he keeps much of his personal life private. According to available information, Simpson may currently be single.
At 58 years old as of 2025, Simpson has balanced his hockey career and broadcasting work with family responsibilities throughout his adult life.
Off-Ice Interests and Charitable Work
Beyond hockey, Simpson has built a successful broadcasting career. He works as a commentator for Hockey Night in Canada and Rogers Sportsnet, where he shares his extensive hockey knowledge with Canadian viewers.
Simpson has 19,200 followers on X (formerly Twitter), where he occasionally shares insights about hockey and glimpses into his personal interests.
His philosophy of “Don’t waste a day on things that are unimportant” reflects his approach to life after professional sports. This mindset has reportedly guided his post-playing career choices.
Simpson participates in various charitable initiatives, though he typically maintains a low profile regarding these activities. He has been involved in hockey-related community programs that focus on youth development in Canada.
As someone who achieved significant success in the NHL, Simpson uses his platform to contribute positively to the hockey community and broader Canadian society.
Public Image and Media Presence
Craig Simpson has established a significant presence in Canadian hockey media after his playing career. His transition from player to broadcaster has shaped how fans and colleagues perceive him in the hockey world.
Portrayal in Sports Media
Simpson’s media portrayal has been mixed throughout his broadcasting career. As a Hockey Night in Canada broadcaster for Rogers Sportsnet, he has built a substantial following of over 19,200 Twitter followers. His analysis style divides hockey fans, particularly Maple Leafs supporters.
Some Toronto fans have expressed frustration with Simpson’s commentary. On Reddit, Leafs fans have described his play-by-play work as “the absolute worst” with some claiming to “fall asleep” during his broadcasts.
This perception may be influenced by historical context. Simpson allegedly stated he didn’t want to play in Toronto if drafted by the team, creating lingering resentment among some Leafs supporters.
Partnerships and Professional Networks
Simpson’s professional network stems from his playing days and broadcasting career. As a former Edmonton Oiler during their dynasty years, he maintains strong connections throughout hockey’s elite circles.
His broadcasting partnerships at Rogers Sportsnet have been central to his media identity.
Simpson joined Twitter in September 2011, using the platform to expand his media footprint beyond television.
Simpson’s philosophy of not wasting time on “things that are unimportant” has apparently guided his professional relationships. His status as a two-time Stanley Cup champion and what some call the “greatest sniper in NHL history” has opened doors throughout the hockey world.
His 10-season NHL playing career, which began in 1967, provided connections that served as the foundation for his broadcasting transition.
Comparative Analysis
Craig Simpson’s impact on the Toronto Maple Leafs can be better understood by examining his career against contemporaries and within hockey’s broader historical context. His contributions both on and off the ice have shaped perceptions of his legacy with the organization.
Craig Simpson vs. Contemporary Players
Simpson’s career statistics tell an interesting story when compared to his peers. During his playing era, he maintained impressive efficiency, particularly in scoring percentage.
While with Edmonton before joining Toronto, Simpson established himself as one of the most efficient scorers of his generation. His 23.6% career shooting percentage remains among the highest in NHL history. This efficiency stands in stark contrast to many current Maple Leafs players who typically hover around 10-14%.
Current Maple Leafs broadcaster Chris Cuthbert has worked alongside Simpson in analyzing team performance, particularly special teams play where Simpson excels in breaking down complex strategies.
When matched against contemporaries like Jozef Cierny, Simpson’s NHL career trajectory showed greater longevity and impact before injuries forced his early retirement at age 28.
Achievements in Historical Context
Simpson’s Stanley Cup victories with Edmonton before joining Toronto provide important context for his broadcasting insights. His championship experience gives weight to his analysis of the Maple Leafs’ special teams issues.
As a broadcaster, Simpson has developed a reputation for technical analysis that draws from his playing experience. His commentary style has garnered mixed reactions from fans, with some Toronto supporters finding him overly critical compared to traditional Maple Leafs announcers.
Simpson’s perspective on matchups against strong Eastern Conference teams like the Boston Bruins reflects his analytical approach. He frequently highlights goaltending as a crucial factor in Toronto’s competitive formula.
His NCAA background and understanding of developmental pathways has informed his player evaluation approach, particularly when discussing Toronto’s prospect pipeline and potential roster moves.
Physical Attributes
Craig Simpson stood at an impressive 6’2″ (188 cm) during his playing days. This height gave him a solid presence on the ice, especially when working in front of the net.
Weight-wise, Simpson carried a sturdy 195 pounds (88 kg) on his frame. This combination of height and weight made him difficult to move from prime scoring positions.
Simpson was a right-handed shooter, though he primarily played left wing throughout his career. This right-shooting tendency gave him certain advantages when positioning for one-timers on his off-wing.
His physical build contributed to his effectiveness as a net-front presence, a playing style that defined much of his career. Simpson used his size to establish position and create scoring opportunities.
| Physical Attribute | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 6’2″ (188 cm) |
| Weight | 195 lbs (88 kg) |
| Shoots | Right |
| Playing Style | Net-Front Presence |
Born on February 15, 1967 in London, Ontario, Simpson’s physical attributes served him well during his 10-season NHL career.
