Scott Laughton's acquisition by the Toronto Maple Leafs has proven to be more impactful than initially anticipated, with his contributions extending far beyond mere goals and assists. The Maple Leafs' 2-1 overtime victory against the Philadelphia Flyers on Thursday night served as a prime example, with Laughton playing a pivotal role against his former team.
Laughton's homecoming to Philadelphia was marked by a game-tying, shorthanded goal, injecting much-needed energy into the Maple Leafs. However, focusing solely on the goal would overlook the nuances of his overall performance. From the opening faceoff, Laughton was actively involved in facets of the game that often go unnoticed: tenacious forechecking, strategic stick lifts in the neutral zone, and intelligent body positioning that directed Flyers players away from the high-danger areas.
His contributions on the penalty kill have been particularly noteworthy, showcasing his value beyond offensive statistics. Moreover, Laughton's proficiency in faceoffs has been a significant asset. In the game against the Flyers, he won an impressive 19 out of 20 faceoffs, effectively controlling the play each time he stepped on the ice.
The trade that brought Laughton to Toronto from Philadelphia involved the Maple Leafs sending a 2027 first-round pick (top-10 protected) and prospect Nikita Grebenkin to the Flyers, while also receiving a fourth-round and sixth-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. The Flyers also retained 50% of Laughton's $3 million AAV contract, resulting in a manageable $1.5 million cap hit for the Maple Leafs through the end of the next season. At the time of the trade, Laughton had tallied 11 goals and 16 assists in 60 games.
While Laughton is capable of playing center, he has found success on the wing. Prior to joining the Maple Leafs, there was a period where the Flyers showcased Laughton in a more offensive role, pairing him with skilled players. This versatility allows the Maple Leafs to utilize him in various situations and line combinations.
The Maple Leafs' acquisition of Laughton addresses their need for secondary scoring and strengthens their defensive capabilities. His ability to contribute in all zones, combined with his leadership qualities, makes him a valuable asset in the locker room. While his offensive numbers may not always be eye-catching, his consistent effort, attention to detail, and ability to make timely plays have solidified his importance to the team's success.
