Wayne Simmonds signs new contract with the Philadelphia Flyers

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Samer Dagher
April 12, 2024 (6:00 PM)

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Former Philadelphia Flyers forward Wayne Simmonds

Photo credit: Philadelphia Inquirer

Wayne Simmonds had a turbulent ride during the 2022-23 season with the Toronto Maple Leafs. He shuffled between the main team and their AHL affiliate, the Toronto Marlies, multiple times. His situation was complicated by the Leafs signing Ryan Reaves, a younger player similar to Simmonds but with more game time potential, which signaled trouble for Simmonds' role. As the season progressed, Simmonds didn't see any action, sparking rumors about his possible retirement.

Simmonds eventually confirmed these rumors, announcing his retirement from professional hockey. He expressed his intention to sign a symbolic one-day contract with the Philadelphia Flyers, his former team, to retire officially as part of the organization where he enjoyed his prime years.

In a statement, Simmonds spoke warmly about his time with the Flyers, emphasizing the special connection he felt with the city and its fans.

"Philadelphia has always had a special place in my heart," he said. "The people of Philadelphia accepted me as one of their own. Being there for eight years...I loved every second of it."

Despite injuries shortening his career, he expressed no regrets, highlighting the unwavering effort he put into every game.

"I gave everything I had to Philadelphia," he said. "[Injuries] kind of cut my career short, but I wouldn't change it one bit. Every ounce, every tear, all the sweat, all the teeth I have�or don't have, I should say!�it was just something I was willing to do whatever I could possibly do to try and win. I always meant every single thing that I did...I got so much love from the fans there, so it was just important to me that I did give it my all."

Simmonds played a significant 584 games for the Flyers, scoring 203 goals and 175 assists. He quickly endeared himself to the fans after his arrival from the Los Angeles Kings in the Mike Richards trade.

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12 AVRIL \| 195 ANSWERS Wayne Simmonds signs new contract with the Philadelphia Flyers Do you think this is a classy move by the Philadelphia Flyers to sign Wayne Simmonds to a 1-day contract?
Yes	188	96.4 %
No	7	3.6 %
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