Could Simmonds Ride Shotgun for Our Penguins?

In stark contrast to my last two articles, this one’s going to be comparatively short ‘n’ sweet.

In evaluating the Penguins’ chances of landing a playoff berth this season, I mentioned the lack of a third-line center capable of stepping into a top-six role as a shortcoming.

There’s another need to be filled. Long-time readers of PenguinPoop probably know where I’m going with this.

Kyle Dubas did add some much-needed mustard to the lineup when he signed buzz-saw forward Noel Acciari to a two-year deal. As a refresher, Acciari hits hard and often (244 last season). Nor does he have any issue with dropping the gloves in defense of a teammate. Fights quite well, too.

However, at 5’10” and 209 pounds he’s obviously not cut out to take on the Tom Wilsons of the world.

To my Neanderthal eye, the Pens still lack a genuine heavy who can defend his teammates and perhaps even do a little intimidating of his own.

I wonder if Dubas might consider adding a player he had in Toronto, Wayne Simmonds. Once upon a time a formidable scorer with six 20-plus goal seasons (including a pair of 30-goal campaigns) to his credit, the 34-year-old right wing is well past his prime as an offensive threat. But the former Messier Award winner, long renowned for his leadership, character and team-first attitude, is a true warrior and still one of the best fighters around.

“He still scares the s–t out of people,” said former Leafs teammate Mitch Marner. “It’s nice to have that on your team at all times. And when he speaks in this room, everyone listens.”

“It can’t be easy, with what he’s accomplished (263 career goals) and what he’s been through throughout his career,” added Leafs captain John Tavares, speaking of Simmonds’ diminished role last season. “But we tip our cap, and, obviously, really appreciate him because of the role that he’s accepted. How he’s handled himself and carried himself on a daily basis has been phenomenal. So, as I said, we’re really lucky to have him as a teammate of ours in many facets.”

Despite Simmond’s toughness and glowing reputation among his teammates, it’s hard to image Pens skipper Mike Sullivan having much use for him, especially given Sully’s stonewall aversion to tough guys. Heck, he wouldn’t play Ryan Reaves when the capo dei capi of NHL heavies was in his prime. And I’m certainly not suggesting a regular spot in the lineup for Simmonds. But on nights when we square off against rugged foes like Philly, Boston and Wilson’s Caps? The 6’2” 184-pounder might be a physical option.

Too, despite his advanced age, the fire to play still burns.

“It’s still special,” Simmonds shared in an interview with Mike Stephens of The Hockey News. “Any time you get to lace up your skates in the NHL, it’s amazing.”

In an interview with Jonas Siegel of The Athletic, Simmonds confessed he hoped to play a few more years.

“I know I have lots to give,” he said.

I realize it probably has as much chance of happening as a snow ball floating down the Mon in July. But could he ride shotgun for our paperweight Pens?

Watson Available, Too

For the record, Austin Watson’s available as well. He’s a left wing, three years younger than Simmonds, a moose at 6’4” and 204 pounds. Every bit as willing, if not necessarily as accomplished a fighter.

In addition to doling out 165 hits last season, he scored three shorties for the Sens (nine goals in total).