Following an unexpected lineup shuffle, Toronto Maple Leafs captain John Tavares found himself centering a line with Matias Maccelli and Scott Laughton during Monday's game against the Minnesota Wild. While the move might have raised some eyebrows, Tavares' comments shed light on the potential benefits of having Laughton on his wing.

Tavares emphasized Laughton's relentless competitive drive, highlighting his hard-nosed style of play, ability to win battles, and willingness to engage in the gritty areas of the ice. These qualities are invaluable, especially when games become tighter and require more than just finesse.

Beyond the obvious grit, Tavares pointed out Laughton's underrated offensive capabilities. He noted Laughton's "soft hands," keen understanding of the game, and poise on breakaways, suggesting a player with a broader skillset than many might assume. This offensive upside could add a new dimension to Tavares' line, creating more scoring opportunities and keeping opponents guessing.

Moreover, Tavares lauded Laughton's infectious personality and positive attitude, describing him as the "life of the locker room". He emphasized Laughton's ability to build bonds within the team and create a more enjoyable atmosphere. This intangible quality can be crucial for maintaining team morale and fostering a winning culture, especially during a demanding season. Tavares joked that Laughton "always has something up his sleeve," and "you can't look at him with a straight face".

The Maple Leafs are currently in a tight playoff race, and with key players like Matthew Knies dealing with injuries, the team needs to find ways to generate offense and maintain their competitive edge. The newly formed line of Maccelli-Tavares-Laughton offers a blend of skill, grit, and experience that could potentially provide a spark for the team. As Tavares himself stated, Laughton's versatility allows him to adapt to different roles and contribute in various situations, making him a valuable asset to any line.

It remains to be seen whether this line combination will be a long-term solution for the Maple Leafs. However, John Tavares' endorsement of Scott Laughton's qualities suggests that there's a genuine belief in the potential for this duo to create positive results on and off the ice.