The Toronto Maple Leafs have struggled to find the back of the net this season, a surprising issue given their offensive firepower. With superstars like Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, John Tavares, and William Nylander in the lineup, goal-scoring shouldn’t be a concern. However, consistency remains an issue, and the Leafs’ lack of secondary scoring has become glaring.
One of the major reasons Toronto has failed to make deep playoff runs in recent years is their inability to generate timely goals. As the NHL trade deadline approaches, GM Brad Treliving will undoubtedly be looking to add reinforcements—particularly at center and defense. According to NHL insider Darren Dreger on TSN 1050, the Maple Leafs are actively exploring options to address these needs.
Dreger noted that Toronto is particularly interested in bolstering its center depth, and one name that has surfaced in trade talks is Scott Laughton. With the recent blockbuster deal sending Joel Farabee and Morgan Frost to the Calgary Flames, the Philadelphia Flyers appear to be entering sell mode. The Flyers are reportedly looking to free up cap space to pursue high-profile free agents this summer, and Laughton’s name is firmly in the trade rumor mill.
Why Scott Laughton is a Perfect Fit for the Leafs
Laughton, 30, brings a unique blend of grit, defensive responsibility, and secondary scoring—traits that would immediately benefit the Leafs. His ability to play in all situations, including the penalty kill and as a shutdown forward, makes him a valuable asset. More importantly, Laughton plays with a level of tenacity that Toronto’s bottom six is sorely lacking.
While Laughton isn’t known for lighting up the scoresheet, he has consistently provided 30-40 points per season, making him an excellent depth addition. He also carries a manageable cap hit of $3 million through 2026, which fits within Toronto’s financial constraints.
Will the Leafs Pull the Trigger on a Trade?
One of the biggest factors in any potential deal is cost. Dreger mentioned that the Maple Leafs are hesitant to part with a first-round pick for Laughton—and they might not have to. If Philadelphia is primarily looking to clear cap space, a package centered around a second-round pick and a mid-tier prospect might be enough to land Laughton.
Another element to consider is competition. If the Flyers make Laughton available, other contenders could enter the bidding war, potentially driving up the asking price. However, Toronto has shown a willingness to be aggressive at the deadline, and acquiring Laughton could provide the stability they desperately need in their bottom-six forward group.
Leafs Need to Act Before It’s Too Late
If Toronto wants to solidify their playoff position and address their offensive woes, they need to make a move soon. While names like Brandon Saad have been floated as potential winger targets, adding a versatile center like Laughton might be the smarter move. He brings an element of reliability, physicality, and leadership that could prove invaluable in the postseason.
With trade talks heating up and the Flyers looking to shed salary, the Leafs are in prime position to make a move. The only question is whether Treliving is willing to pay the price to secure a player who could be the missing piece for a deep playoff run.
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