Simon Gagne Will Not Return This Season
Sep 30, 2014; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Bruins left wing
Simon Gagne(12) against the New York Islanders during the second period at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
“When I decided not to return this season, I spoke to Peter and assured him that I did not want the organization or my teammates to be impacted. Together we made the decision that my status would be changed, so that the team could have a full active roster. In addition, I would like to thank the fans and the NHL family for all of the support that they have given my family and I during this difficult time – it has truly meant a lot.”-Simon Gagne
Early on in the month of December Boston Bruins forward Simon Gagne decided to take some personal time off to be at home with his terminally ill father. Upon news that his father had passed, the Bruins and Gagne announced today that the forward would not be returning this season. Gagne appeared in 23 games for the Black and Gold this season, tallying three goals and an assist. During that span he was able to record his 600th career NHL point just before permanently departing from the team.
“At this time Simon feels that he has to be home with his family and he has the complete support of the Boston Bruins organization with this decision,” said Peter Chiarelli in a statement released through the Bruins.
Upon meeting together and discussing what is best for Gagne and the Bruins as a whole, it was determined that Gagne would be placed on the suspended list so the team can fill his spot on the roster.
“The last month has been extremely difficult for me with my father being sick and his passing,” said Gagne. “To play in the NHL you have to be 100% mentally, emotionally and physically committed to the game. At this time I know that I cannot be close to those levels. The Bruins organization and my teammates have been great to my family and I during this time.”
While true, the timing was nothing short of ill-timed as the forward had just begun playing some of his best hockey and the Bruins’ fourth line had just started coming together. The upside, during his short, three-month tenure in Boston he was at least able to appear in his 800th career game and tally his 600th career point, both which are likely to be the last milestones of his career.