Some clarification on what's happening with Wayne Simmonds; Something still doesn't add up

Many had assumed that since Simmonds, 33, has not been playing well of late, he may be placed on waivers, but when the 2pm waiver deadline came and went, Simmonds' name was not on the list and there were more than a few raised eyebrows.

On Friday, Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe had stated that Simmonds is actually a healthy scratch. That isn't helping the confusion factor any. My big question here is why move Simmonds to non-roster if he's merely a healthy scratch? Something doesn't add up here.

After Simmonds, a Scarborough native, had been honoured for playing his 1000th NHL game, there were some who believed that the Leafs may look to move on from the veteran winger, as his game is certainly trending downward. The other option would be to waive and demote him prior to the playoffs if the Buds can secure an upgrade on the 4th line. Vancouver's Tyler Motte is among the names mentioned. Simmonds is signed through next season for less than $1M.

The speculation on Simmonds right now is that he has been granted a leave of absence from the team for some sort of a family emergency or potentially even a paternity leave after the recent birth of his child.