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Charlie Simmer
Charlie Simmer
Charlie Simmer
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Charles Robert Simmer (born March 20, 1954) is a Canadian former professional ice hockey forward, most notably for the Los Angeles Kings in the National Hockey League, who was known for his scoring prowess.

Key Information

Playing career

[edit]

After a junior career with the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds of the Ontario Hockey Association that saw him score 99 points in his only season (1973–74), Simmer was selected in the third round of the 1974 NHL amateur draft, 39th overall, by the California Golden Seals, where he joined a young field of players such as Larry Patey, Rick Hampton, George Pesut, Al McAdam and Stan Weir. He split his first three professional seasons between the Seals and the Salt Lake Golden Eagles of the CHL, having success in the minors but receiving limited playing time in the NHL. The Seals relocated to Cleveland in 1976, but Simmer did not receive more playing time.

He was traded in 1977 to the Los Angeles Kings, but spent the season with the Springfield Indians of the AHL, winning All-Star accolades. The next season Simmer was promoted halfway through the campaign to the Kings, and scored 21 goals in 39 games.

While with the Kings, he played left wing on the "Triple Crown Line" with Marcel Dionne and Dave Taylor, one of the most potent and famed forward lines of the era. Despite injuries costing him significant playing time, Simmer had back-to-back 56-goal seasons and leading the NHL in goals during the 1979-80 season. Further being named an NHL first team All-Star in 1980 and 1981. In the latter season, Simmer almost accomplished one of hockey's most difficult feats: scoring 50 goals in 50 games. Simmer entered his 50th game with 46 goals and scored three times to finish just shy of the mark; that same night, Mike Bossy became only the second player in NHL history to score 50 in 50.[1] Simmer scored his 50th goal the following night in his 51st game.[2] Simmer's shooting percentage of 32.75 in 1981 was, and remains, an NHL record.[3] Two months later, during a game on March 31 against the Toronto Maple Leafs at Maple Leaf Gardens, Simmer missed a check on defensemen Borje Salming that saw one leg fly in the air while his right skate was caught in the ice, which resulted in a broken right leg.[4][5] During the 1983-84 season Simmer scored 44 goals and 48 assists leading to him playing in the 1984 NHL all star game and being awarded the Bill Libby Memorial Award as the kings most valuable player.

Simmer was traded at the beginning of the 1985 season to the Boston Bruins, where despite the cumulative effects of several injuries throughout his career, he starred for three more seasons. One season saw him miss games with a broken jaw. In 1986, Simmer won the Bill Masterton Trophy for his perseverance and dedication to hockey; in that season, he missed nearly 20 games with a knee injury before coming back only to be struck in the eye by a stick during a game where he narrowly missed losing sight in.[6] Despite all these injuries Simmer still found a way to be a consistent scorer for the Bruins throughout his tenure tallying 60 plus points all 3 seasons. As well as scoring 20 plus goals every year.

Simmer played his final NHL season, for the Pittsburgh Penguins, in 1988. He subsequently played the 1989 season for Eintracht Frankfurt in the German Bundesliga scoring 51 points in 35 games. Then after a season off, he then spent parts of two seasons as a player-coach for the minor league San Diego Gulls before retiring.

Retirement

[edit]

Simmer finished his NHL career with 711 points (342 goals, 369 assists) in 712 career games. At the time of his retirement, he was the last active player in North American professional hockey to have played for the Seals-Barons franchise (though Dennis Maruk was the last alumnus of the franchise to play in the NHL, upon his retirement in 1989.)

In 1994 he was inducted into the Northwestern Ontario sports Hall of Fame.[7]

He was formerly married to one-time Playboy Playmate of the Year Terri Welles; the couple had one daughter. He subsequently remarried in 1995 to Jody and together they had a son and a daughter. Simmer spent years as a color commentator for the Phoenix Coyotes and the Calgary Flames on Sportsnet.

After his career ended, he resided in Calgary for a number of years before moving to Texas along with his wife in the mid-2010s to work with Decca, a consulting company specializing in oil and gas after they bought out his company.[8]

In 2023 he would be named one of the top 100 Bruins players of all time.[9]

Career statistics

[edit]

Regular season and playoffs

[edit]
Regular season Playoffs
Season Team League GP G A Pts PIM GP G A Pts PIM
1971–72 Kenora Muskies MJHL 45 14 31 45 77 — — — — —
1972–73 Kenora Muskies MJHL 48 43 68 111 57 — — — — —
1973–74 Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds OHA 70 45 54 99 137 — — — — —
1974–75 California Golden Seals NHL 35 8 13 21 26 — — — — —
1974–75 Salt Lake Golden Eagles CHL 47 12 29 41 86 — — — — —
1975–76 California Golden Seals NHL 21 1 1 2 22 — — — — —
1975–76 Salt Lake Golden Eagles CHL 42 23 16 39 96 — — — — —
1976–77 Cleveland Barons NHL 24 2 0 2 16 — — — — —
1976–77 Salt Lake Golden Eagles CHL 51 32 30 62 37 — — — — —
1977–78 Los Angeles Kings NHL 3 0 0 0 2 — — — — —
1977–78 Springfield Indians AHL 75 42 41 83 100 4 0 1 1 5
1978–79 Los Angeles Kings NHL 37 21 27 48 16 2 1 0 1 2
1978–79 Springfield Indians AHL 39 13 23 36 33 — — — — —
1979–80 Los Angeles Kings NHL 64 56 45 101 65 3 2 0 2 0
1980–81 Los Angeles Kings NHL 65 56 49 105 62 — — — — —
1981–82 Los Angeles Kings NHL 50 15 24 39 42 10 4 7 11 22
1982–83 Los Angeles Kings NHL 80 29 51 80 51 — — — — —
1983–84 Los Angeles Kings NHL 79 44 48 92 78 — — — — —
1984–85 Los Angeles Kings NHL 5 1 0 1 4 — — — — —
1984–85 Boston Bruins NHL 63 33 30 63 35 5 2 2 4 2
1985–86 Boston Bruins NHL 55 36 24 60 42 3 0 0 0 4
1986–87 Boston Bruins NHL 80 29 40 69 59 1 0 0 0 2
1987–88 Pittsburgh Penguins NHL 50 11 17 28 24 — — — — —
1988–89 Frankfurt Lions GER 36 19 32 51 68 4 1 2 3 13
1990–91 San Diego Gulls IHL 43 16 7 23 63 — — — — —
1991–92 San Diego Gulls IHL 1 0 0 0 0 — — — — —
NHL totals 712 342 369 711 544 24 9 9 18 32

International

[edit]
Medal record
Representing  Canada
World Championships
Bronze medal – third place 1983 West Germany
Year Team Event Result GP G A Pts PIM
1983 Canada WC 3rd place, bronze medalist(s) 10 2 3 5 8
Senior totals 10 2 3 5 8

Awards and achievements

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Charlie Simmer

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Charles Robert Simmer (born March 20, 1954) is a Canadian former professional ice hockey left winger who played 12 seasons in the National Hockey League (NHL) from 1974 to 1988, amassing 711 points (342 goals and 369 assists) in 712 regular-season games. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches and weighing 210 pounds, Simmer was known for his powerful shot and net-front presence, particularly during his tenure with the Los Angeles Kings, where he formed one-third of the famed Triple Crown Line alongside center Dave Taylor and right wing Marcel Dionne from 1979 to 1984. This line made NHL history in the 1980–81 season as the first forward trio to each record over 100 points, with Simmer contributing 56 goals and 105 points in 65 games. Drafted by the in the third round (39th overall) of the 1974 NHL Amateur Draft and also selected by the Cleveland Crusaders in the second round of the concurrent WHA Draft, Simmer began his professional career with the Seals (later the Barons) but saw limited NHL action early on, spending much of his initial years in the , including stints with the (CHL) and Springfield Indians (AHL), where he earned AHL Second Team honors in 1977–78. He signed with as a in 1977 and broke out offensively in 1978–79, scoring 21 goals in 38 games before achieving a 56-goal campaign in 1979–80, tying for the league lead in goals despite playing only 64 games, and repeating the 56-goal total in 65 games the following season. Simmer represented at the NHL in 1981 and 1984, and earned First-Team recognition in 1980 and 1981. Simmer's career was significantly impacted by injuries, including a shattered right leg in March 1981 that sidelined him for the remainder of that season and a severe injury in November 1985 that sidelined him for about 20 games; he was traded to the early in the 1984–85 season amid a contract dispute. Demonstrating remarkable perseverance, Simmer returned strongly with the Bruins in 1985–86, posting 60 points in 62 games and earning the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy for dedication to hockey despite ongoing recovery from damage. He played his final NHL season with the in 1987–88 before retiring after minor-league stints, including as player-manager for the (IHL) in 1991–92, and later represented at the 1983 World Championships, helping secure a .

Early life and junior career

Upbringing and family

Charlie Simmer was born on March 20, 1954, in , , . Raised in this remote town on the north shore of , Simmer grew up in a community accessible primarily by the and the Canadian Pacific Railway, located far from larger centers like . Terrace Bay featured a robust minor hockey program with organized leagues that progressed to junior B levels, providing early opportunities for local youth to develop their skills on community rinks and outdoor ice surfaces. It was through these experiences that Simmer first cultivated his passion and talent for hockey, laying the groundwork for his future in the sport. Simmer was previously married to , with whom he had one daughter, before marrying Jody in 1995. He is married to Jody and has three children: , Jake, and Austyn. The family spent many years in , , where Simmer and his wife raised their children while he pursued broadcasting opportunities.

Junior hockey development

Charlie Simmer began his junior hockey career in the (MJHL) with the Kenora Muskies, where he developed his offensive skills as a left winger during the 1971–72 and 1972–73 seasons. In his second year, Simmer exploded offensively, recording 43 goals and 68 assists for 111 points in 48 games, earning him the Norquay Trophy as the MJHL scoring champion and a spot on the league's First Team. This performance showcased his emerging scoring prowess and playmaking ability, while he physically matured into a imposing presence on the ice. In 1973, Simmer transitioned to major junior hockey with the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds of the (OHA), the team's second season in the league after joining in 1972. Playing all 70 games in the 1973–74 season, he tallied 45 goals and 54 assists for 99 points and 137 penalty minutes, finishing 13th overall in OHA scoring. His contributions helped the Greyhounds to a mid-table finish, with the team posting a 24–40–6 record, 54 points, 295 goals for, and 352 goals against, though they missed the . During his OHA stint, Simmer honed his role as a , leveraging his 6-foot-3-inch, 210-pound frame to dominate along the boards and in front of the net, combining physicality with elite goal-scoring instincts. Supported by his family from his , , upbringing, this period marked a pivotal step in his development, transitioning from junior B to major junior competition and solidifying his reputation as a high-impact scorer.

Professional playing career

Draft and early NHL teams

Simmer was selected in the third round, 39th overall, by the in the 1974 NHL Amateur Draft. He was also chosen 26th overall in the second round of the 1974 WHA Amateur Draft by the Cleveland Crusaders. Following his junior success with the , Simmer made his NHL debut with the Seals during the 1974–75 season, appearing in 35 games and recording 8 goals and 13 assists for 21 points. In the 1975–76 season, his playing time with the Seals diminished to 21 games, where he managed just 1 goal and 1 assist. After the Seals relocated and merged with the Minnesota North Stars to become the Cleveland Barons ahead of the 1976–77 season, Simmer joined the new franchise but struggled for consistent ice time, playing 24 games with 2 goals and no assists. Throughout his early professional years from 1975 to 1977, Simmer spent significant time in the minor leagues with Central Hockey League affiliates, including the Salt Lake Golden Eagles, where he posted solid production such as 23 goals and 16 assists in 42 games during the 1975–76 season. These assignments highlighted his adjustment difficulties to the NHL's physicality and speed, as he shuttled between limited top-level opportunities and more prominent roles in the minors. In August 1977, Simmer signed with the as a , concluding his tenure with the Seals and Barons organizations.

Los Angeles Kings tenure

Simmer signed with the as a on August 8, 1977, following limited playing time with the and Cleveland Barons, which had honed his scoring instincts for the NHL level. In his debut 1977–78 season, he appeared in just three games without recording a point, spending most of the year developing in the with the Springfield Indians, where he earned All-Star honors. Simmer broke out in 1978–79, playing 38 games for and tallying 21 goals and 27 assists for 48 points, establishing himself as a reliable left winger. The following season marked a turning point when, on January 13, 1979, coach Bob Berry united him with center and right winger Dave Taylor to form the Triple Crown Line, a dynamic trio that emphasized seamless passing, aggressive forechecking, and balanced scoring. This line quickly became the engine of ' offense, with Simmer's physical presence and shot complementing Dionne's playmaking and Taylor's tenacity; in their inaugural partial season together, they helped propel to a 34–34–12 record and a playoff berth. The 1979–80 season showcased Simmer's emergence as an elite scorer, as he tied for the NHL lead with 56 goals and reached 101 points in 64 games, earning a spot on the First Team despite playing in the high-scoring . The Triple Crown Line dominated, combining for 328 points that year, with Simmer contributing to key stretches like his 13-game goal-scoring streak that fueled ' push to the playoffs, though they fell in three games to the Chicago Black Hawks. Simmer added two goals in the postseason, including one on the power play. Simmer matched his goal total in 1980–81 with another 56 tallies and 105 points in 65 games, again securing First All-Star honors and helping the line amass over 350 combined points—the first in NHL history for three teammates each surpassing 100 points in a season. This offensive firepower kept the Kings competitive in a rugged division alongside emerging powers like the , finishing with a 43–24–13 record and another playoff appearance, though they exited early against the . The line's chemistry was evident in their showcase at the Forum, highlighting ' growing NHL presence under owner . In 1981–82, injuries limited Simmer to 50 games, where he still managed 15 goals and 24 assists for 39 points, but the Triple Crown Line adapted to combine for 262 points amid the Kings' divisional battles. Simmer shone in the during the famed "," scoring the game-winning goal in a 10–8 thriller against on April 7 and totaling 11 points (4 goals, 7 assists) over 10 games as upset the high-powered Oilers 3–0 before falling to the in the division semifinals. This run underscored the line's impact in elevating the to a playoff contender status, drawing attention despite persistent trade speculation around Simmer amid the team's push for deeper success.

Boston Bruins and Pittsburgh Penguins

In October 1984, Simmer was traded from the Los Angeles Kings to the in exchange for the Kings' 1985 first-round draft pick, which was used to select Dan Gratton; the move came after Simmer requested a trade amid ongoing recovery from prior injuries. Despite the lingering effects of his health challenges, Simmer integrated into the Bruins' lineup and posted a productive 1984–85 season, recording 33 goals and 30 assists in 63 games while helping the team reach the playoffs, where he added four points in five games. The following year, 1985–86, Simmer continued as a key offensive contributor for , scoring 36 goals and 24 assists in 55 games en route to a 60-point output; his production supported the Bruins' strong regular-season performance as champions, though they fell in the division semifinals to the . In 1986–87, he appeared in all 80 games for the Bruins, tallying 29 goals and 40 assists for 69 points, further solidifying his role on a team that again qualified for the postseason. Throughout his Boston tenure, Simmer's scoring prowess—building on his high-output years with the Kings—provided consistent secondary offense and veteran leadership on a defensively oriented squad. Prior to the 1987–88 season, Simmer was selected by the Pittsburgh Penguins off waivers from the Bruins on October 5, 1987, marking the end of his time in Boston. With Pittsburgh, he played 50 games, contributing 11 goals and 17 assists for 28 points, including a power-play goal in a key win against the Hartford Whalers on February 6, 1988; this stint represented his final NHL action before retirement. Across both teams, Simmer's efforts emphasized reliable wing play and power-forward presence, though without significant minor-league assignments during these years.

Injuries, comeback, and retirement

Major injuries sustained

Charlie Simmer's career was significantly impacted by a series of major injuries beginning in the early , which collectively limited his playing time and contributed to a decline in production following his peak seasons of 56 goals in both 1979-80 and 1980-81. The most devastating injury occurred on March 2, 1981, during a game against the , when Simmer suffered a severe of his right between the ankle and knee after colliding with the goalpost. X-rays confirmed an unstable that required immediate at Wellesley in , where metal pins were inserted to stabilize the bone, followed by a 12-day hospitalization and casting. This sidelined him for the remainder of the 1980-81 season and into the next, with rehabilitation involving extensive ; he returned to play but managed only 50 games in 1981-82, scoring 15 goals compared to his prior elite output. In January 1985, after being traded to the , Simmer sustained a broken in a game against the on January 19. The injury, caused by a high stick or collision, required wiring of the and an estimated recovery of three to six weeks, leading him to miss approximately 12-15 games during the 1984-85 season. Treatment focused on and nutritional support through liquid diets, allowing a gradual return without further complications, though it disrupted his early momentum with the new team. The following season brought another severe setback with a torn medial ligament in his right knee, diagnosed in late 1985 after he collapsed during a game against the on November 10. Simmer underwent arthroscopic to repair the damage, avoiding more invasive reconstruction, but the injury caused him to miss 19 games early in the 1985-86 season. Rehabilitation included targeted strengthening exercises and cautious skating drills, yet lingering effects reduced his mobility and contributed to only 55 that year. Compounding the knee issue, Simmer suffered a serious on January 5, 1986, against the , when a stick struck him near the eye, causing multiple complications including bleeding in the front and behind the eye, a bruised , and a lacerated . He was rushed to Infirmary for evaluation and treatment, which involved monitoring for vision loss and stitches for the cut, with no required but strict rest to prevent detachment. This sidelined him for an additional six games, further limiting his season to a total of about 25 missed contests from both injuries. These injuries had a cumulative toll, causing Simmer to miss approximately 70 games from the 1981-82 to 1986-87 seasons and altering his aggressive playing style, as he dealt with ongoing pain and reduced speed from the and damage. By 1987-88, persistent effects led to another 50-game season, marking the beginning of his transition toward retirement.

1985 comeback and final seasons

Following a dispute and trade from the on October 24, 1984, Charlie Simmer joined the and debuted in the NHL with them that same day. In his first full season with Boston during 1984–85, he appeared in 63 games, contributing 33 goals and 30 assists for 63 points, helping the team reach the playoffs where he added four points in five games. The following 1985–86 season saw Simmer continue his resurgence despite lingering effects from injuries, recording 36 goals and 24 assists in 55 games; his determination was recognized with the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, awarded for perseverance, , and dedication to hockey. Simmer remained with the Bruins for the 1986–87 season, playing all 80 regular-season games and tallying 29 goals and 40 assists for 69 points, but did not record a point in the single playoff game. He then signed with the as a and played his final NHL season in 1987–88, appearing in 50 games with 11 goals and 17 assists for 28 points. Seeking to extend his career abroad, Simmer joined in Germany's for the 1988–89 season, where he recorded 19 goals and 32 assists in 36 regular-season games, plus three points in four playoff contests. After a year off, Simmer returned to for a brief stint in the International Hockey League (IHL) with the in 1990–91, playing 43 games and scoring 16 goals with seven assists. He appeared in just one game for the Gulls in 1991–92 as player-assistant coach before announcing his in 1992 at age 38, concluding an 18-season professional career that included 712 NHL games. These later minor-league and overseas appearances served as a gradual wind-down, allowing Simmer to ease out of competitive play while reflecting on a career marked by resilience amid repeated injuries.

International career

1983 IIHF World Championship

Charlie Simmer was selected to represent Team Canada at the 1983 IIHF World Championship, held in from April 16 to May 2, marking his sole major international tournament appearance. His inclusion stemmed from his productive 1982–83 season with the , where he tallied 29 goals and 51 assists in 80 games, showcasing his scoring prowess as a left winger on the Triple Crown Line. The tournament, hosted across , , and , overlapped with the NHL regular season's conclusion and the start of , presenting logistical challenges for Simmer in managing his Kings commitments alongside international duties. In 10 games for , Simmer recorded 2 goals, 3 assists, and 5 points while accumulating 8 penalty minutes, contributing to the team's overall effort in a competitive field dominated by European powerhouses. Canada advanced to the final round and clinched the with a third-place finish, behind gold-medal winners the and silver-medalists . Key highlights included a lopsided 8–2 defeat to the on May 2 in —a high-stakes rivalry matchup where Canada's defense struggled against the Soviets' offensive depth—along with victories over teams like (3–1) and (5–2) that helped secure the podium position. Simmer's steady play, including assists in multiple games, supported Canada's balanced attack led by players like , underscoring his role in the bronze-medal achievement despite the tournament's demanding schedule.

Other international involvement

Simmer's international involvement was confined primarily to the 1983 IIHF World Championship, with no participation in Olympic tournaments during his career, as professional players from the National Hockey League were not permitted to compete until the 1998 Nagano Games. He also did not appear in any tournaments, the premier best-on-best international competition of the era, largely due to persistent injuries and club obligations. A severe sustained in March 1981 against the sidelined him for the entire , causing him to miss the while still in recovery. For the , Simmer was not selected despite his strong 1983–84 performance, and a severe knee ligament injury in January 1985 limited his play in the latter part of the to 68 games overall. Following the 1983 Worlds, Simmer's health challenges, including the knee injury in 1985 and an in January 1986, precluded additional international opportunities, resulting in a notably brief global career overshadowed by his extensive domestic achievements in the NHL. No records indicate involvement in minor international exhibitions or all-star events with an international component beyond preparatory games for the 1983 tournament.

Post-playing career

Broadcasting roles

Following his retirement from professional hockey in 1992, Charlie Simmer transitioned into broadcasting, beginning as a television for the Los Angeles on Prime Ticket during the 1992–93 season. He then served as the radio for the Anaheim during their inaugural 1993–94 season and continuing through the 1995–96 season alongside play-by-play announcer Matt McConnell. In 1996, Simmer joined the Phoenix Coyotes as a television color analyst, partnering with Doug McLeod from 1996 to 2002 and then with Curt Keilback from 2002 to 2004, where he provided game analysis for the team's regional broadcasts. Simmer relocated to in 2005 and took on television analysis roles for the on , initially contributing to and select games from 2005 to 2011 alongside announcers such as Peter Loubardias and John Garrett. From 2011 to 2014, he served as the primary color commentator paired with play-by-play voice Rob Kerr, offering insights during regular season and playoff coverage, often drawing on his extensive playing experience including his time on the ' Triple Crown Line to analyze offensive strategies and player dynamics. Simmer's straightforward, player-perspective style was noted for its focus on tactical breakdowns, though it received mixed reviews from fans for lacking flair in high-energy moments. In April 2014, underwent a broadcast team overhaul for , releasing Simmer and Kerr as part of broader programming changes; Simmer, who had been active in hockey media for over 20 years including 12 with , subsequently shifted focus to business pursuits and relocated to in the mid-2010s.

Business and other pursuits

Following his broadcasting career, Charlie Simmer relocated from to the Austin area of in the mid-2010s to pursue opportunities in the and gas sector. He joined Decca Consulting LLC in a business development role after the firm acquired his prior energy consulting company in , where he had been involved in buying and selling distressed and gas businesses since 2011. In April 2021, Simmer transitioned to Total Oilfield Rentals as a representative, specializing in solids control equipment for drilling operations in key regions like the Eagle Ford Shale and Permian Basin. In this capacity, he focuses on client relationship building, product promotion, and industry networking at such as the Permian Basin Operators Forum. Simmer applies transferable skills from his hockey background, including , accountability, and , to foster long-term partnerships and mentor teams within the , drawing parallels between athletic discipline and business resilience. As of 2025, Simmer continues to reside in , and remains active in his sales role at Total Oilfield Rentals, traveling extensively to support operations in the dynamic energy market.

Legacy and impact

Triple Crown Line contributions

The Triple Crown Line, featuring left wing Charlie Simmer alongside center and right wing Dave Taylor, was assembled by the during the 1979–80 season and quickly became one of the NHL's most potent offensive units. The trio's chemistry propelled the Kings to notable success, with the line combining for 328 points in 1979–80 and an even more impressive 352 points the following season, marking the highest collective output by any forward line in league history at that time. This achievement earned them the "Triple Crown" nickname, referencing the rare feat of all three players surpassing 100 points in 1980–81, akin to a horse winning three major races in . Simmer played a pivotal role as the line's physical anchor and finisher, leveraging his 6-foot-3 frame to battle for pucks along the boards and in front of the net while contributing elite scoring and playmaking. He tallied 56 goals in 64 games during 1979–80, leading the NHL in that category, and matched the mark with 56 goals and 49 assists in 65 games the next year, often setting up Dionne's one-timers and Taylor's drives to the net. His ability to draw defenders created space for his linemates, enhancing their production and establishing a balanced, high-tempo style that emphasized quick transitions and relentless forechecking. The line's dominance was instrumental in revitalizing the Kings franchise, transforming a middling into a consistent playoff contender and sparking widespread interest in hockey among fans during the early 1980s. By powering the Kings to 43 wins and a second-place finish in the in 1980–81—their best record to that point—the Triple Crown Line helped build a loyal following in a market traditionally dominated by and , laying foundational excitement for the sport's growth in . In historical context, the Triple Crown Line stands alongside iconic trios like the ' GAG (Goal a Game) Line of the 1950s and the ' KLM Line of the 1940s, distinguished by its modern-era scoring efficiency and the rarity of three 100-point seasons from a single unit. Simmer's contributions, in particular, underscored the line's legacy as a model of complementary talents that elevated team performance beyond individual stars.

Awards, honors, and recognitions

Charlie Simmer earned recognition as one of the National Hockey League's premier left wingers during his time with the , particularly through his selection to the NHL First All-Star Team in the 1979–80 and 1980–81 seasons, honors attributed to his exceptional scoring prowess as a key member of the Triple Crown Line. These selections highlighted his back-to-back campaigns of 56 goals each, establishing him among the league's elite offensive talents. Later in his career, Simmer received the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy in 1986 while with the , an award presented annually to the player exemplifying perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey. This honor acknowledged his remarkable return to the NHL following significant career setbacks. With the Kings, Simmer was voted the recipient of the Bill as the team's for the 1983–84 season by the media, recognizing his leadership with 44 goals and 92 points that paced the franchise. In 1994, Simmer was inducted into the Northwestern Sports Hall of Fame, celebrating his contributions to hockey from his hometown roots in , , including a distinguished 14-year NHL tenure with 342 goals in 712 games. In 2023, as part of the ' centennial celebrations, Simmer was named to the franchise's "Historic 100" list of most legendary players, as selected by a panel of journalists, historians, and hockey figures, underscoring his impact during his three seasons with the team from 1985 to 1988.

Career statistics

Regular season and playoffs

Simmer's NHL regular season career totals encompass 712 , 342 goals, 369 assists for 711 points, a rating of +115, and 544 penalty minutes across his tenure with the , Cleveland Barons, , , and . The following table details his year-by-year regular season performance:
SeasonTeamGPGAPtsPIM+/-
1974–75358132126–2
1975–762111222–9
1976–77Cleveland Barons2420216–11
1977–78300020
1978–793821274816+10
1979–8064564510165+47
1980–8165564910562+32
1981–825015243942–7
1982–8380295180510
1983–847944489278+7
1984–8551014–5
1984–856333306335+14
1985–865536246042+13
1986–878029406959+20
1987–885011172824+6
Total712342369711544+115
In the , Simmer appeared in 24 games, scoring 9 goals and 9 assists for 18 points while accumulating 32 penalty minutes. His year-by-year playoff statistics are as follows:
SeasonTeamGPGAPtsPIM
1978–7921012
1979–8032020
1981–8210471122
1984–8552242
1985–8630004
1986–8710002
Total24991832
During the 1982 Smythe Division finals against the , Simmer contributed 4 goals and 7 assists in 10 games. Prior to establishing himself in the NHL, Simmer played significant hockey in the with the from 1974 to 1977, appearing in 140 games with 67 goals, 75 assists, 142 points, and 219 penalty minutes. He also logged time in the with the Springfield Indians in 1977–78 (75 GP, 42 G, 41 A, 83 Pts, 100 PIM) and 1978–79 (39 GP, 13 G, 23 A, 36 Pts, 33 PIM).

International play

Simmer represented at the 1983 IIHF World Championship held in , where the team secured a bronze medal by finishing third behind the and . In the tournament, he appeared in all 10 games, contributing 2 goals and 3 assists for 5 points while accumulating 8 penalty minutes.
YearTournamentGPGAPtsPIM
1983IIHF World Championship102358

References

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  2. https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/41493/charlie-simmer
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  4. https://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=4958
  5. https://www.nhl.com/player/charlie-simmer-8451365
  6. https://www.nytimes.com/1981/03/04/sports/simmer-undergoes-surgery.html
  7. https://www.nhl.com/news/nhl-bill-masterton-memorial-trophy-winners-complete-list-288418608
  8. https://archive.thehockeynews.com/issue/610866/45
  9. https://smitherscelebritygolf.com/index.php/celebrities/charlie-simmer
  10. https://www.famousbirthdays.com/people/charlie-simmer.html
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  12. https://icehockey.fandom.com/wiki/Charlie_Simmer
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  17. https://lastwordonsports.com/hockey/2020/08/08/today-in-hockey-history-charlie-simmer-signs-with-los-angeles-kings/
  18. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1993-06-09-sp-1108-story.html
  19. https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/s/simmech01/gamelog/playoffs/1980/
  20. https://edmontonjournal.com/sports/hockey/nhl/edmonton-oilers/edmonton-oilers-history-charlie-simmer-notches-winner-in-10-8-scorefest-of-a-los-angeles-kings-playoff-win-april-7-1982
  21. https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/s/simmech01/gamelog/playoffs/1982/
  22. https://www.upi.com/Archives/1984/10/23/Charlie-Simmer-the-Los-Angeles-Kings-left-winger-who/4232467352000/
  23. https://www.upi.com/Archives/1987/10/05/Veteran-left-winger-Charlie-Simmer-headed-a-list-of/8136560404800/
  24. https://www.upi.com/Archives/1988/02/06/Charlie-Simmer-scored-a-power-play-goal-with-310-remaining/9693571122000/
  25. https://www.nytimes.com/1981/03/03/sports/simmer-of-kings-breaks-leg.html
  26. https://www.upi.com/Archives/1981/03/03/Charlie-Simmer-the-Los-Angeles-Kings-All-Star-left-winger/6300352443600/
  27. https://www.upi.com/Archives/1981/03/17/Charlie-Simmer-recovering-from-surgery-to-repair-a-broken/9383353653200/
  28. https://archive.thehockeynews.com/issue/607665/12?t=Simmer%2520Plays%2520Like%2520Old%2520Self%2520As%2520Leg%2520Injury%2520Fully%2520Healed
  29. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1985-01-23-sp-14684-story.html
  30. https://www.upi.com/Archives/1985/11/12/The-good-news-for-Charlie-Simmer-is-he-does/2332500619600/
  31. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1985-11-12-sp-4983-story.html
  32. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1986-01-08-sp-666-story.html
  33. https://www.upi.com/Archives/1986/05/21/Boston-Bruins-winger-Charlie-Simmer-Wednesday-was-named-winner/2439517032000/
  34. https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1507921-nhl-players-who-were-never-the-same-after-a-devastating-injury
  35. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1985-01-09-sp-12203-story.html
  36. http://lakingslegends.blogspot.com/2007/03/charlie-simmer.html
  37. https://www.quanthockey.com/whc/en/team-rosters/team-canada-1983-whc-roster.html
  38. https://www.quanthockey.com/whc/en/teams/team-canada-players-1983-whc-stats.html
  39. https://www.iihf.com/en/medalists
  40. https://theihlc.com/1983/05/02/ihlc-results-soviet-union-8-2-canada-may-2-1983/
  41. https://www.quanthockey.com/whc/en/seasons/1983-whc-results.html
  42. https://olympic.ca/2024/02/02/faq-nhl-participation-in-the-olympic-winter-games/
  43. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/3116248/2022/02/09/down-goes-brown-remembering-the-biggest-stars-who-never-played-for-team-canada-in-a-best-on-best-tournament/
  44. https://forums.hfboards.com/threads/notable-players-who-surprisingly-never-played-for-team-canada.2887953/
  45. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1993-09-09-sp-33193-story.html
  46. https://archive.506sports.com/wiki/NHL_Local_Radio_Announcer_History
  47. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1996-08-16-sp-34742-story.html
  48. https://www.chroniclejournal.com/sports/local_sports/fostering-hockey-voices-past-and-present/article_8c6abd18-5409-11e8-86f5-57f2052edb33.html
  49. https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/kerr-flames/
  50. https://archive.506sports.com/wiki/NHL_Local_Television_Announcer_History
  51. https://www.sbnation.com/2011/7/8/2250696/nhl-broadcaster-rankings-announcers-commentators
  52. https://calgaryherald.com/sports/hockey/sportsnet-960-the-fan-announces-new-voice-for-the-calgary-flames
  53. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aIWFJv6wqbg
  54. https://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/leagues/seasons/teams/0000401980.html
  55. https://www.cbssports.com/nhl/news/nhl-all-time-teams-los-angeles-kings/
  56. https://www.sportscollectorsdaily.com/hockeys-three-kings-collecting-the-triple-crown-line/
  57. https://devilsmedia.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/los-angeles-kings-media-guide.pdf
  58. https://www.nwosportshalloffame.com/Athletes/0d284f53-f473-482c-931a-d74f7b019e54
  59. https://www.nhl.com/bruins/news/bruins-announce-historic-100-ahead-of-all-centennial-team-reveal
  60. https://teamusa.usahockey.com/page/show/2669003-1983-iihf-men-s-world-championship
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