This past offseason, Wayne Simmonds' 2 year contract expired with the Toronto Maple Leafs, making the 35 year old an unrestricted free agent. At his age, and only playing in 18 games last season, many expected Simmonds to retire this summer.
However, since no retirement announcement has been made, insiders are beginning to speculate what could be next for the veteran fighter. According to Jamey Baskow from a credentialed Flyers blog, Simmonds may be open to returning to his former team, the Philadelphia Flyers, on a professional tryout during training camp.
It could be a good fit for both parties, if Simmonds is looking to extend his career, and the Flyers are looking to bring back the mentality of the broad street bullies, or to protect their younger players through a rebuilding season.
Simmonds played for the Flyers during his prime, when he was more than just the feared fighter he is today. From 2011 to 2018, Simmonds was an extremely effective power forward for the Flyers, peaking with a 32 goal, 60 point season in 2015-16.
Once Simmonds left Philadelphia, he went on to become the journeyman fighter he is today, and how most newer fans will remember him. However, if he can play his way onto a rebuilding roster and recoup some of the offensive talent he had in his last stint in Philly, perhaps Simmonds can extend his career another year.
