Matt Walker

Matt Walker (born April 7, 1980) is a Canadian former professional ice hockey Defenceman who played in the National Hockey League (NHL). During his nine NHL seasons he played for the St. Louis Blues, Chicago Blackhawks, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Philadelphia Flyers. He is the younger brother of former WHL player Darby Walker and cousin of former AHL goaltender Mike Walker.

Playing career
Walker was drafted by the St. Louis Blues in the 3rd round of the 1998 NHL Entry Draft, 83rd overall. He spent the first ten years of his professional career with both the Blues and their American Hockey League affiliates, the Worcester IceCats and the Peoria Rivermen. After having played 153 games in the league he finally notched his first NHL goal on February 17, 2008 while the Blues were hosting the Columbus Blue Jackets.

On July 1, 2009, he signed a 4 year deal with the Tampa Bay Lightning worth $1.7 million per season.

On July 19, 2010 Walker was traded to the Philadelphia Flyers, along with a 4th round pick in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft, in exchange for forward Simon Gagne.

Walker's three years in Philadelphia were marred by hip and back injuries, playing in only eight games with the Flyers and 44 games with the Flyers' AHL affiliate, the Adirondack Phantoms. He missed the entire 2012-13 season due to a back injury, forcing him to retire.