5 Hometown Players the Toronto Maple Leafs Should Sign

#2. Wayne Simmonds

The Athletic’s Pierre Lebrun spoke to Simmonds last week and here’s what he said about joining his hometown team:

"“So, of course it’s crossed my mind. I know they’re in a bit of a salary cap situation and things of that nature, but you know I’m open to everything, Toronto’s got a great core of players and I think that’s definitely a team where I could go in and make an impact right away… It’s up to the teams. Whoever wants to choose me, I’ll be waiting. I’ll definitely be ready to go.’’"

It’s not everyday that you hear a player speak so truthful about his future. Simmonds is fully aware of the cap-crunch in Toronto and knows he can make a difference there. After signing a one-year $5M contract last year, Simmonds may be interested in a similar length deal with less money to give the Leafs a hometown discount.

He only scored eight goals last year, but he’s completely healthy for the first time in two years. The six-time 20-goal scorer could be a perfect addition to the Leafs fourth line if he’s rejuvenated.