8. Wayne Simmonds Is (Was) Back
We all have heard the story of Wayne Simmonds before coming to Toronto. Back in Philadelphia, he was a great powerplay option and an even better net-front presence who was never going to shy away from any bout or tilt.
Unfortunately, after being traded to Nashville in 2019 and then bouncing around to New Jersey to Buffalo, Simmonds could never really find a home to fit. But after an extended COVID off-season, Wayne Simmonds was ready to come back healthier and more determined than ever. After signing with the Toronto Maple Leafs in October, Simmonds had this to say to the media,
"“I can play the game, but at the same time, I can punch your head off if need be… Anything happens to the boys, I’ll be the first to jump in”"
It didn’t take long for Simmonds to live up to his word. In just his first game with the Leafs, Simmonds chucked ’em to fire up his squad before an overtime victory over Montreal.
In his first few games with the Leafs, Simmonds was playing well too, he just couldn’t find the back of the net. After going 6 games scoreless it finally started to click for the Scarborough native. Over his next 6 games, Simmonds would pot home 5 goals in a very limited role.
The dirtiest of the bunch came in his last game before unfortunately being injured. Simmonds would finish with 2 goals that night.
Can't stop this train 🚂#LeafsForever pic.twitter.com/9IeHCkcRR2
— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) February 7, 2021
It really was too bad that Simmonds was injured just as he was coming into his own. Simmonds is still expected to be out another 4 weeks with a broken hand.