Latest:Maple Leafs acquire centre Scott Laughton from Flyers

The Toronto Maple Leafs have made a significant move ahead of the NHL trade deadline by acquiring veteran center Scott Laughton from the Philadelphia Flyers. The trade, finalized on March 7, 2025, also includes a fourth-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft and a sixth-round pick in the 2027 Draft coming to Toronto. In exchange, the Flyers receive forward prospect Nikita Grebenkin and a top-10 protected first-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft. Philadelphia will retain 50% of Laughton’s remaining salary. citeturn0search1

 

**Scott Laughton’s Profile**

 

Scott Laughton, 30, has been a mainstay with the Flyers since being drafted 20th overall in the 2012 NHL Draft. Over his 12-season tenure with Philadelphia, Laughton appeared in 661 games, registering 265 points (106 goals, 159 assists) and accumulating 386 penalty minutes. Known for his versatility and two-way play, Laughton has been a reliable center capable of contributing both offensively and defensively. This season, he has recorded 27 points (11 goals, 16 assists) in 60 games, averaging 15:06 of ice time per game. citeturn0search2

 

Laughton’s leadership qualities have also been evident, serving as an alternate captain for the Flyers since the 2022-23 season. His physical style of play is highlighted by 129 hits and 33 blocked shots this season, underscoring his commitment to both ends of the ice. citeturn0search2

 

**Impact on the Maple Leafs**

 

For the Maple Leafs, acquiring Laughton addresses a crucial need for depth at the center position behind stars Auston Matthews and John Tavares. Laughton’s defensive acumen and penalty-killing prowess are expected to bolster Toronto’s middle-six forward group, providing stability and experience as the team gears up for a deep playoff run. His physicality and leadership align with the Leafs’ aspirations to enhance their competitiveness in the postseason.

 

Laughton’s familiarity with the Toronto area adds another layer of significance to the trade. Born in Oakville, Ontario, just south of Toronto, Laughton expressed enthusiasm about joining his hometown team, stating, “Being a Leafs fan growing up, it’s really cool and really special.” citeturn0search0

 

**Details of the Trade**

 

The trade specifics are as follows:

 

– **To Toronto Maple Leafs:**

– Scott Laughton

– 2025 fourth-round pick

– 2027 sixth-round pick

 

– **To Philadelphia Flyers:**

– Nikita Grebenkin (prospect forward)

– 2027 first-round pick (top-10 protected)

 

The Flyers’ retention of 50% of Laughton’s $3 million annual salary provides the Maple Leafs with financial flexibility. Laughton is under contract through the 2025-26 season, offering Toronto cost certainty beyond the current campaign. citeturn0search4

 

**Philadelphia’s Perspective**

 

From Philadelphia’s standpoint, the trade signifies a strategic move toward the future. By acquiring a promising prospect in Nikita Grebenkin and a first-round draft pick, the Flyers are positioning themselves for long-term growth. Grebenkin, 21, has shown potential in the AHL with nine goals and 12 assists in 39 games for the Toronto Marlies this season. His transition to North American hockey has been closely watched, and the Flyers are optimistic about his development within their system. citeturn0search3

 

Flyers General Manager Danny Brière acknowledged the difficulty of trading a player of Laughton’s caliber and character, stating, “Trading Scott Laughton was one of the most difficult things I probably ever had to do as a GM. What he means to the Flyers… it was tough to let him go, [but] the return was amazing.” citeturn0search3

 

**Looking Ahead**

 

As the Maple Leafs integrate Laughton into their lineup, expectations are high for his contribution to the team’s playoff aspirations. His experience, versatility, and local ties make him a valuable addition to Toronto’s roster. Meanwhile, the Flyers’ acquisition of young talent and draft capital reflects a commitment to building a competitive team for the future.

 

The trade underscores both teams’ strategic objectives: Toronto’s pursuit of immediate success and Philadelphia’s focus on long-term development. Fans and analysts alike will be keen to observe how this transaction influences the respective trajectories of the Maple Leafs and Flyers in the coming seasons.