Brief Introduction of Dillon Simpson
Dillon Simpson is a distinguished Canadian former professional ice hockey defenceman who has successfully transitioned into a coaching role. He is widely recognized not only for his own achievements in the sport but also as the son of former NHL forward and two-time Stanley Cup champion, Craig Simpson. Dillon’s career was marked by strong leadership and a reputation as a reliable, intelligent defenceman. Drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft, he played professionally for nine seasons, primarily in the American Hockey League (AHL), where he was a respected figure and team captain. His journey also included a brief but memorable stint in the National Hockey League (NHL) with the Oilers. After a commendable playing career, Simpson returned to his collegiate roots, accepting a position as an assistant coach for the prestigious University of North Dakota men’s hockey team, where he continues to contribute to the sport by developing the next generation of players.
Dillon Simpson Overview
| Full Name | Dillon Simpson |
| Date of Birth | February 10, 1993 |
| Age(as of 2025) | 32 |
| Birthplace | Edmonton, Alberta, Canada |
| Profession | Former Professional Ice Hockey Player, Assistant Hockey Coach |
| Husband/Wife | Haley Simpson |
| Family | Craig Simpson (Father), Christine Simpson (Mother), Haley Simpson (Wife), Stevie Simpson (Daughter), Halston Simpson (Daughter) |
| Relationship/Affairs(GF/BF) | Married |
| Net Worth | Estimated between $2 million and $4 million |
Early Life and Education of Dillon Simpson
Dillon Simpson was born on February 10, 1993, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, into a family deeply embedded in the culture of professional hockey. His father, Craig Simpson, was a celebrated NHL player, winning two Stanley Cups with the Edmonton Oilers, which provided Dillon with early exposure to the highest levels of the sport. Growing up in such an environment, the rink was a familiar and second home. He began his minor hockey journey in Edmonton, developing his fundamental skills and a deep understanding of the game. Before embarking on his notable collegiate career, Simpson played junior hockey for the Spruce Grove Saints in the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL). His time with the Saints was highly successful; he helped the team capture a league championship and earned personal accolades, including being named the AJHL Rookie of the Year and a selection to the (North) All-Rookie Team. This formative period was crucial in shaping him into a top prospect. Following his success in junior hockey, Simpson committed to the University of North Dakota, a powerhouse in NCAA Division I men’s ice hockey. He pursued a degree in managerial finance and corporate accounting, successfully balancing rigorous academics with the demands of elite college athletics and graduating in 2014.
Dillon Simpson’s Career
Dillon Simpson’s hockey career is a testament to his dedication, leadership, and love for the game. His journey began to take significant shape at the University of North Dakota, where he played four seasons from 2010 to 2014. During his time with the Fighting Hawks, he developed into a premier college defenceman, appearing in 156 games and recording 75 points (16 goals and 59 assists). His leadership qualities were evident, culminating in him being named team captain for his senior year (2013-14). That season, he led the team to an NCAA Frozen Four appearance and was recognized for his outstanding play with a selection to the inaugural All-NCHC First Team. His potential was recognized early by the NHL, as the Edmonton Oilers selected him in the fourth round, 92nd overall, in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft.
After graduating, Simpson signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Oilers in 2014, officially beginning his professional career. He was initially assigned to the Oilers’ AHL affiliates, first the Oklahoma City Barons and later the Bakersfield Condors. For four seasons within the Oilers organization, Simpson was a consistent and reliable presence on the blue line in the AHL, honing his skills and serving as an alternate captain for the Condors. His hard work paid off when he made his NHL debut on December 7, 2016, against the Philadelphia Flyers. He would play a total of three games for the Edmonton Oilers during the 2016-17 season.
In 2018, Simpson became a free agent and signed a two-year contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets. He was assigned to their AHL affiliate, the Cleveland Monsters, where he would spend the next five seasons and cement his legacy as a leader. He was named an alternate captain upon his arrival and eventually became the team’s captain from 2021 to 2023. With the Monsters, he played nearly 500 AHL games over his nine-year professional career, known for his veteran presence and mentorship of younger players. His contributions extended beyond the ice, earning him the Cleveland Monsters’ Man of the Year award in 2023 for his significant community involvement.
On August 23, 2023, Dillon Simpson officially announced his retirement from professional hockey. However, he did not step away from the sport. The very next day, it was announced that he was returning to his alma mater, the University of North Dakota, to begin a new chapter as an assistant coach. In this role, he brings a wealth of professional experience and a deep connection to the program, tasked with guiding the team’s defencemen and helping to shape the future of Fighting Hawks hockey.
Dillon Simpson Personal Life & Family
Family has always been a cornerstone of Dillon Simpson’s life, starting with his hockey lineage. He is the son of Christine Simpson and Craig Simpson, a former NHL star and current hockey broadcaster. This connection to the professional hockey world provided him with invaluable insights and a strong support system throughout his career. His father’s subsequent marriage to Olympic gold medal-winning figure skater Jamie Salé further expanded his well-known athletic family. Dillon Simpson is a dedicated family man himself. He is married to his wife, Haley Simpson. Together, they have two daughters, Stevie and Halston. The family resides in Grand Forks, North Dakota, where Dillon has embraced his coaching role at the University of North Dakota. His personal life reflects the values of commitment and family that he often displayed as a leader on the ice. Information about his personal beliefs and broader lifestyle is not widely publicized, as he maintains a relatively private life off the ice.
Awards and Achievements of Dillon Simpson
- AJHL (North) All-Rookie Team (2009-10)
- AJHL Rookie of the Year (2009-10)
- AJHL Champion with Spruce Grove Saints (2009-10)
- NCAA (WCHA) Champion (2010-11, 2011-12)
- NCAA (WCHA) All-Academic Team (2011-12)
- NCHC First All-Star Team (2013-14)
- Cleveland Monsters Man of the Year (2022-23)
Dillon Simpson Net Worth and Income
The precise Dillon Simpson net worth is not publicly available, but as of 2025, it is estimated to be between $2 million and $4 million. This estimation is based on his nine-year professional hockey career. His income was primarily derived from his player contracts. He signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Edmonton Oilers in 2014 worth $2.775 million. This was followed by a one-year, $650,000 contract in 2017 with the Oilers, and a two-year, $1.35 million contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2018. His career earnings from NHL contracts are reported to be over $1.8 million. While his AHL salaries were lower than his NHL figures, they provided a steady income throughout his career. His current income comes from his position as an assistant coach for the University of North Dakota’s men’s hockey team.
Legacy and Influence
Dillon Simpson’s legacy in hockey is one of intelligence, leadership, and perseverance. While he may not have had a lengthy NHL career like his father, he carved out a highly respected and successful nine-year professional career, predominantly in the AHL. His influence was most profoundly felt in the locker room, where he was consistently looked upon as a leader, serving as a captain for both the University of North Dakota and the Cleveland Monsters. He is remembered as a player who maximized his talents through hard work and a high hockey IQ. His commitment to community service, highlighted by his Man of the Year award in Cleveland, also forms a significant part of his public image. Now, as a coach at a premier NCAA program, his influence continues as he imparts his knowledge and experience to young, aspiring players, ensuring his impact on the sport will be felt for years to come.
Interesting Facts about Dillon Simpson
- He was drafted by the same NHL team his father, Craig Simpson, won two Stanley Cups with, the Edmonton Oilers.
- He served as the team captain for his college team, the University of North Dakota, during his senior year.
- He also wore the captain’s “C” for the Cleveland Monsters in the AHL for two seasons (2021-23).
- Following his retirement as a player, he immediately transitioned into a coaching role at his alma mater.
- He was part of the inaugural All-NCHC First Team in 2014.
- Dillon’s father, Craig, and his stepmother, Jamie Salé, won the first season of the CBC reality show “Battle of the Blades” together in 2009.
Controversies
There are no publicly known controversies associated with Dillon Simpson. Throughout his collegiate and professional career, he has maintained a reputation for professionalism, leadership, and strong character both on and off the ice.
Social Media Presence
- Instagram – Information not publicly available
- Twitter – Information not publicly available
- YouTube – Not publicly available
Final Words about Dillon Simpson
The Dillon Simpson biography illustrates a journey defined by a deep-rooted passion for hockey, exemplary leadership, and a seamless transition from player to mentor. From his early days in Edmonton, through a stellar collegiate career at the University of North Dakota, and a resilient professional tenure, Simpson consistently embodied the qualities of a dedicated and intelligent hockey player. While his NHL appearances were limited, his impact in the AHL as a veteran presence and captain was profound. Retiring on his own terms, he has chosen to give back to the sport and the institution that shaped him. As an assistant coach at UND, his current focus is on developing young talent, applying the lessons learned from a lifetime in the sport. Dillon Simpson’s story is not just about personal achievement but also about carrying on a family legacy and positively influencing the future of hockey.