Connolly clears waivers, will join Marlies

Tim Connolly is staying in Toronto after all.

The veteran forward will join the AHL’s Toronto Marlies after clearing waivers on Friday.

The Leafs placed Connolly on waivers Thursday afternoon. GM Dave Nonis told reporters after practice Friday that Connolly is still a valued player and may re-join the team at a later date.

Since re-entry waivers were eliminated in the new collective bargaining agreement, Connolly could be recalled at any time.

He signed a two-year, $9.5 million contract with the Leafs as an unrestricted free agent in July of 2011.

In 70 games last season, Connolly recorded 13 goals and 36 points with a rating of minus-14.

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