“Jay is a veteran centerman who is proficient in the faceoff circle,” said Francis. “He’ll also provide elements of consistency and leadership for our club.”

McClement, 31, completed his ninth NHL season and second with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2013-14. The Kingston, Ont., native earned 10 points (4g, 6a) in 81 games for Toronto, ranking third on the team in games played. McClement (6’1”, 205 lbs.) also led Toronto and ranked in the top 25 in the NHL in face-off percentage (53.6%) for the season.

Selected by the St. Louis Blues in the second round, 57th overall, of the 2001 NHL Entry Draft, McClement has played 682 career NHL games with the Blues, Colorado Avalanche and Maple Leafs, totaling 204 points (75g, 129a). He registered face-off percentages higher than 50 percent in each of the last four seasons and seven of his last eight NHL campaigns.