MAJOR: Beloved Enforcer Calls It A Career With Official Retirement Announcement

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Graham Montgomery
January 26, 2024 (7:23 PM)

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All great things must come to an end. Today that is exactly what one fan favorite player realized as he made it clear that his playing days are over.

Former Leafs Enforcer Calls It A Career

Wayne Simmonds has not played in the NHL since last season when he suited up for 18 games with the Leafs. The 35-year-old power forward has seemingly called it a career after 1037 games in the league.

Spoke to Wayne Simmonds for an upcoming HDA story.

Without a contract this season, I asked about his playing future:

"I haven't officially announced my retirement, but I'm done. I had a great career. It was the best time I've ever had in my life. Right now, it's family time."

The grizzled veteran has received an outpouring of support from fans online following the announcement. It is clear based on the reaction that Simmonds left his mark on NHL fans across the league.

Wayne Simmonds records a hat trick vs the rangers during the 2014 playoffs

Congrats on a hell of career , Simmer. You'll always be a fan favorite

Simmonds Thanks Fans In Toronto For Opportunity

Simmonds of course, spent most of his career with the Philadelphia Flyers and LA Kings. However, he did spend parts of his final three seasons in his hometown with the Toronto Maple Leafs. The veteran forward made sure to thank the team specifically in his announcement.

Wayne Simmonds on his time with the Leafs: "Nice to be able to play at home. From the playing aspect, it wasn't what I hoped ... I'm still grateful to the organization for allowing me to put on the Maple Leaf. That's an iconic jersey. It's something that I'll never forget."

Simmonds played in 1037 career NHL games, recording 263 goals and 263 assists for 526 career points.

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