Islanders trade Chris Simon to Minnesota

UNIONDALE, N.Y., Feb. 26 (UPI) -- The New York Islanders traded forward Chris Simon to the Minnesota Wild Tuesday for a 2008 sixth-round draft pick.

Known for his tough-guy actions, Simon has played in only two games since serving an NHL-record 30-game ban for purposely stepping on the leg of Pittsburgh's Jarkko Ruutu on Dec, 15.

Simon was assessed a match penalty and a game misconduct for intent to injure during the third period of that contest. He was called to an in-person hearing in Toronto and the suspension was handed down by NHL Vice President Colin Campbell.

Last season, the 15-year veteran was suspended 25 games for stick swinging against Ryan Hollweg of the New York Rangers, a penalty that carried into this season. He also served a total of 15 games for six different previous suspensions involving kneeing, cross-checking, elbowing and slashing.

Simon, 36, has one goal, two assists and 43 penalty minutes in 28 games this year.