The Toronto Maple Leafs have come to terms on a deal with veteran forward Wayne Simmonds. Simmonds’ new deal is worth $1.5 million on a one-year deal.
Simmonds signs with #LeafsForever 1-year $1.5 million. Full no movement clause. Left more $ on table for desire to win and play for hometown. @Sportsnet #NHLFreeAgency
— Anthony Stewart (@StuMunrue) October 9, 2020
Wayne Simmonds Signs With the Toronto Maple Leafs
Wayne Simmonds’ new contract comes off of a season in which the veteran forward scored eight goals and added 17 assists for 25 points in 68 games. Simmonds started the season with the New Jersey Devils before the Devils flipped him to the Buffalo Sabres at the trade deadline. The Scarborough, Ontario native didn’t produce much during his tenure in Buffalo, with just one assist in seven games. Simmonds’ ability to drive possession has degraded in recent years too. The power forward has not registered a Corsi For percentage over 50 percent since 2016-17.
Simmonds has a certain reputation but has not lived up to expectations in some time, at least not on the scoresheet. Still, teams can trust him to be popular with his teammates and fans alike. The forward can be considered a leader and an energetic player.
Going Forward
Simmonds appears to be a long way away from his most productive seasons. That being said, the forward has also played for four teams in just the last two years. Perhaps the long-time fan favourite can recapture some of his productivity with a more stable role. This new contract should provide Simmonds with the opportunity to find that stability.
Simmonds likely slots in as a bottom-six player that can still provide some grit. Though his best days on the score sheet are far behind him, Simmonds can still throw his weight around. Wayne Simmonds hasn’t logged less than 100 hits in a season since the lockout-shortened 2012-2013 season. This new contract for Simmonds is one to watch for the next NHL season. Will Simmonds recapture the form he often showed during his time with the Philadelphia Flyers? Or will Simmonds continue to depreciate in value?
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