With the trade deadline approaching and the Toronto Maple Leafs rumored to be on the verge of becoming sellers, Scott Laughton knows the coming weeks could determine more than just whether the team makes the playoffs this season. He may wear a different jersey when the playoffs are underway.
The 31-year-old forward is an unrestricted free agent, and with Toronto slipping badly in the standings, questions are growing about several names on the roster. Laughton, a veteran veteran with a team-friendly $1.5 million cap hit, would certainly draw interest from contenders.
Still according Sportsnet’s Luke Fox Laughton made that clear his preference is to stay in Toronto. “I really hope so,” he told Sportsnet. “I have family close by…the Original Six team. It’s special every time you go on the ice.”
Laughton admitted he hasn’t even spoken to his agent much yet, choosing instead to focus on helping the Leafs climb out of their current hole. But he also understands the business side.
Laughton knows he could be traded
“They have a job to do, to try to make the team better,” he said. “And my job is to try to prove that I’m part of the solution.” If he isn’t, he will be part of another organization’s push. Among the teams that could be interested, the Edmonton Oilers, Colorado Avalanche and other contenders are said to be showing interest. Teams that stick to the ceiling would be especially intrigued.
Laughton isn’t the biggest offensive threat, but head coach Craig Berube praised the forward’s effort and presence in the room, calling him an important voice. Given that he doesn’t want to leave and the Leafs don’t want to lose him, is there any way the two sides can come to something before the deadline?
Next: NHL Trade Watch: Maple Leafs Selling, Panarin Interest, Wright On The Move?
#Scott #Laughton #hopes #traded #Toronto