Veteran winger joins Leafs for first practice since they acquired Ryan O'Reilly
After a lengthy absence, the Leafs got a surprise at practice this morning as Wayne Simmonds returned to the ice with the main group. On February 14th, Wayne Simmonds was placed on waivers and effectively sent down to the Toronto Marlies. The last time he was placed on waivers, he remained with the Leafs and continued to skate with them, however, he had not been participating in skates with the Leafs or Marlies this time around - not since the Ryan O'Reilly trade was announced.
Simmonds has played in just 13 games for the Leafs this season with his last coming February 1st against Boston. He has just 1 assist, but has 34 penalty minutes. With Simmonds returning to practice with the Leafs could a recall be coming and could we see him back in the lineup over the next week? It is quite possible as Alex Steeves also joined Simmonds at practice today after being sent down a few days ago while Pontus Holmberg, who was sent down along with Steeves was absent.
The Leafs are set to open a 4-game homestand tomorrow against the Edmonton Oilers. They also host the Sabres, Avalanche and Hurricanes next week. It's unclear at this point if Simmonds is just a placeholder or if Keefe plans to play him tomorrow night. Given the fact that Holmberg was not recalled, it would also seem that John Tavares will be returning to the lineup tomorrow night against the Oilers.
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