As the March 6 trade deadline approaches, veteran forward Scott Laughton is facing an uncertain future with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Laughton, who will become an unrestricted free agent this summer, has expressed his desire to remain in Toronto long-term. However, with the Leafs struggling to maintain a playoff position and facing potential changes, Laughton's future with the team remains unclear.
Laughton, 31, was acquired by the Maple Leafs from the Philadelphia Flyers at the trade deadline last year. In exchange, the Flyers received forward prospect Nikita Grebenkin and a 2027 first-round pick. Philadelphia also retained half of Laughton's $3 million cap hit as part of the deal. Laughton's current contract, a five-year, $15 million deal signed with the Flyers in 2021, is nearing its end.
Despite the team's struggles, Laughton believes in the Maple Leafs' potential. "I believe in this team to win. That's a big part of it at this point in my career," he stated. He also emphasized his connection with his teammates, saying, "I've fallen in love with the guys, too. There's a lot of guys who care here. It's been special for me this year".
Since joining the Maple Leafs, Laughton has brought a consistent two-way presence to the lineup. This season, he has eight goals and 10 points in 34 games. Laughton also leads all Leafs forwards in average shorthanded ice time per game, with 2:13. Despite his contributions, Laughton's average total ice time is 13:45 per game. Some observers suggest that the Maple Leafs should utilize Laughton more effectively. He is winning 57 percent of his faceoffs and ranks fourth among Leafs forwards in hits per 60 minutes.
However, the Maple Leafs' disappointing season could lead to changes before the trade deadline. According to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, the Leafs have begun internal discussions about potentially selling off assets. Several players, including Laughton, Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Calle Jarnkrok, and others, could be on the move.
The Maple Leafs' management faces a decision: re-sign Laughton or trade him to recoup assets. Given the high price the team paid to acquire him, there may be pressure to trade Laughton if the opportunity arises. Complicating matters is the upcoming Olympic break, which will bring a league-wide roster freeze from February 4 to 22. This means that the Leafs will need to make a decision on Laughton's future in the coming days or wait until after the break to resume negotiations or explore trade options.
Ultimately, whether Laughton remains in Toronto depends on the Maple Leafs' direction and their assessment of his value to the team's future. If the Leafs decide to re-sign Laughton, it would signal their belief in his long-term fit with the team. If they opt to trade him, it would indicate a desire to acquire assets and potentially reshape the roster.
