Komets Sign Veteran Defenseman
Published on August 4, 2026 under ECHL (ECHL)
Fort Wayne Komets News Release
Fort Wayne, IN - The Komets announced today that former NHL defenseman Simon Després has agreed to terms for next season along with forward Randy Hernandez. The team now has 16 players under contract for next season. The season begins Saturday, October 17 at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum against Toledo.
Després (SEE-mon deh-PRAY), 35, was drafted in the first round of the 2009 NHL draft by the Pittsburgh Penguins. The 6'4 defender played six seasons in the NHL with the Penguins and 49 games with Anaheim under head coach Bruce Boudreau. The Laval, QC native has spent the last eight seasons playing across Europe.
"Simon has played at every level in our game and has had success. He's played in the best leagues in the world alongside some of the best players in the game," said head coach Ben Boudreau. He is a big-body defenseman with an ability to move the puck and produce points while being a physical presence and dominating defensively."
Hernandez, 27, was signed by the Komets in the summer of 2024 but was traded during training camp for cash considerations to Orlando, who dealt the speedy forward to Atlanta. The Miami, FL native skated 50 games with the Wheeling Nailers last season, scoring seven goals and nine assists.
Visit komets.com for updates on ticket offers, promotional events, schedules, special game jerseys, theme nights, and other highlights for the 75th consecutive season of Fort Wayne Komet Hockey.
Season tickets for 2026-27 are now available. For more information, visit komets.com or call 260-483-0011.
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