The NHL has come down hard on Chris Simon - again.
The repeat offender has been suspended 30 games for his stomping of Jarkko Ruutu's leg in Saturday's Islanders game versus the Penguins. Simon received a match penalty for intending to injure Ruutu.
The Islanders recognized the seriousness of the act and placed Simon on paid leave Monday.
"The actions of Chris Simon on Saturday do not reflect what the New York Islanders stand for," the Islanders said in a new release. "They were reckless, potentially dangerous and against our team concept of grit, character and heart."
Simon also released a statement through the team Monday: "I have enjoyed a long career achieving my dream of being a player in the National Hockey League and I'm proud of my accomplishments. But I acknowledge that time and assistance is needed before I return to the game."
Simon has seven previous NHL suspensions for such infractions as elbowing, kneeing, cross-checking, slashing and a verbal slur in his 15-year career.