Simmonds signs with Leafs, will play for hometown

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The first name went off the free agency board in a matter of seconds, as it was reported that veteran winger Wayne Simmonds was expected to sign a one-year deal with the Toronto Maple Leafs. 

Just moments later, the Leafs made the news official. 

Simmonds' new contract is worth $1.5 million. There are also reports that a no-move clause could be involved in the contract as well, though it has not yet been confirmed. 

Just two seasons prior in 2018-19, the Flyers traded Simmonds at the deadline to the Predators. He then spent last season split between the Devils and Sabres. After spending seven and a half seasons with the Flyers, he bounced from a few different teams in a short amount of time. So, that's where the no-move clause might play a factor, as a way to stabilize himself fully in one city for a whole season. 

This is also a hometown signing for Simmonds, so he should expect to receive a warm welcome upon arriving to the organization. 

For Flyers fans, though, there always seems to be a clear consensus when it comes to rooting for the former fan favorite who played in Philadelphia. He impacted the city in the most positive way during his time spent with the Flyers. Because of this, it's apparent that no matter where he plays, he'll always have Flyers fans cheering him on as well. 

It takes a special player to have that kind of effect on a city. 

In 2019-20, Simmonds collected 25 points (eight goals, 17 assists), with only one assist being with the Sabres. This was the lowest point production since his rookie season with the Kings in 2008-09, when he had 23 points (nine goals, 14 assists) through 82 games. 

Through his career, he's played 909 total games and has 499 points (251 goals, 248 assists).

Let's hope this signing resonates well with Simmonds and will help him succeed once more. 

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