Dominik Simon had two stints with the Penguins -- first from 2015-2020, and again in 2021-22 before being traded to the Ducks at last season's trade deadline.
He had the opportunity for a third stint in the organization, but he turned it down.
Simon on Saturday signed a two-year deal with HC Sparta Praha in the Czech league, returning to his hometown team after last playing there eight seasons ago.
After signing with Sparta, Simon said that the Penguins had offered him a professional tryout contract to attend training camp -- giving him the opportunity to compete for a full contract. He considered returning to Pittsburgh on the PTO but ultimately turned down the offer.
"While I was waiting, I realized that I would actually like to be at home in Prague and in an environment that I know well," he said. "I'm glad that we agreed and I can play in Sparta. I feel very good here."
Simon added that he had an offer from another team as well, but didn't say whether it was for a PTO or a full contract.
Simon had three goals and six assists in 55 games with the Penguins last season, then four assists in 17 games with the Ducks after the trade. He acknowledged that his role was more of a defensive one, and that offensive production wasn't his strong suit, but thinks that the lack of production still likely hurt his chances of receiving full NHL-contract offers this summer.
"I had a season with about 70 games and 28 points, which could have been more. It was how it was. I played more responsibly, the points were extra," he said. "Points are important, everyone is looking at them. If you can get 28 points, it's fine. If you have forty or fifty, it will improve your position. Every player feels it, so it definitely plays a role."
The Penguins offered Simon the PTO regardless of that lack of production. Returning home was what he thought was best for him, though.
"After a long time, my family can come to watch hockey without having to fly ten hours for it," he said.
