Wayne Simmonds, the beloved power forward known for his grit and goal-scoring touch, will officially hang up his skates as a member of the Philadelphia Flyers. The 35-year-old will sign a one-day contract with the organization on April 13th, followed by a celebratory pregame ceremony before the Flyers face off against the New Jersey Devils.
“It’s hard to describe my emotions on a day like this, but one of my very first thoughts as I look back is my life in Philadelphia and playing for the Flyers,” said Simmonds in a statement. “Taking the ice in a Flyers sweater is a special feeling and it’s one that I’m truly proud of. The history of this franchise and standard of being a Flyer that was set is unique and one that I hold in the highest regard.”
Wayne Simmonds Announces Retirement, Returns to the Flyers
Simmonds spent eight of his 15 NHL seasons in Philadelphia, becoming a fan favorite for his physical play and scoring ability in front of the net. He recorded 203 goals and 378 points in 584 games as a Flyer.
The Scarborough, Ontario native was originally a second-round pick (61st overall) by the Los Angeles Kings in the 2007 NHL Draft. Over his career, he amassed 263 goals and 526 points in 1,037 games with the Kings, Flyers, Nashville Predators, New Jersey Devils, Buffalo Sabres, and Toronto Maple Leafs.
Fans will always fondly remember Wayne Simmonds’ time in Philadelphia. His return, even for a single day, is a fitting tribute to a player who embodied the spirit of the Flyers.
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