The Toronto Maple Leafs are expected to be active sellers as the NHL trade deadline approaches this Friday at 3 p.m. Eastern, with several pending unrestricted free agents likely to be moved. Among those potentially on the move is Scott Laughton, whose imminent contract expiration and hometown ties to Toronto have drawn considerable attention during this intense trade period.
Scott Laughton Reflects on Playing for His Hometown Team
Last year, the Maple Leafs acquired Scott Laughton from the Philadelphia Flyers, bringing the Oakville, Ontario native back closer to home. Laughton has expressed his deep appreciation for playing with Toronto, calling it “a very humbling opportunity” to compete for “one of the best franchises.” Despite the challenges trade rumors bring, he emphasized his strong connection to the team and the city.
“It’s hard sometimes. But, at the end of the day, you’re in the NHL & one of the best franchises. It’s a very humbling opportunity to play here & it’s a special place … I’ve loved it here,”
Scott Laughton told TSN’s Mark Masters.
Trade Speculation Links Laughton to Colorado Avalanche
As the trade deadline nears, rumors have surfaced suggesting Denver’s Colorado Avalanche may be interested in adding Laughton to their roster. During a Sunday broadcast on NHL on TNT, insider Elliotte Friedman discussed Colorado‘s potential challenges with re-signing Nazem Kadri, whose $7 million cap hit complicates their salary cap planning, especially with a major extension for Cale Makar anticipated this summer.
In that context, Friedman identified Laughton as a prime candidate for the Avalanche, describing him as a “tremendous fit” and a possible rental acquisition. Laughton’s contract expires at the end of this season, carrying a manageable $3 million average annual value, aligning well with Colorado’s financial and roster needs.
“One of the centers I heard that could end up in Colorado is Scott Laughton. I think he’d be a tremendous fit. He would be more of a rental.”
Elliotte Friedman, NHL Insider
Assessing Laughton’s Contributions and Role
Though Laughton’s offensive production with Toronto has not matched his earlier career highs—scoring eight goals and accumulating 12 points in 42 games this season—his value extends beyond point totals. Known for his leadership and relentless work ethic, Laughton is a physical, grit-driven bottom-six center whose intangibles make him an asset on any playoff contender.
The Avalanche, seeking to bolster their third-line center role, would benefit from Laughton’s strong face-off skills, as reflected in his 56.7% winning percentage this season. His style of play and reasonable cap hit align with Colorado’s strategic requirements as they prepare for a Stanley Cup run.
Upcoming Matchup Against Former Team
In what may be his final game in a Maple Leafs uniform, Laughton is set to face off against his former team, the Philadelphia Flyers, on Monday night. This game could mark a significant moment as trade deadline decisions loom and Toronto navigates its broader roster moves ahead of the NHL’s trading cutoff.
Implications for Toronto and Colorado
The Maple Leafs’ willingness to move players like Laughton reflects the urgency facing teams as they prepare for playoff pushes and salary cap management. Toronto may use the deadline to free cap space and add draft assets, while the Avalanche aim to optimize their roster before extending key players. Should Laughton be traded westward, his blend of experience and versatility could provide Colorado with the depth necessary to strengthen their Stanley Cup aspirations.
Oakville, Ont. native Scott Laughton on trade talk:
"It's hard sometimes. But, at the end of the day, you’re in the NHL & one of the best franchises. It’s a very humbling opportunity to play here & it’s a special place … I've loved it here"https://t.co/piNAangOx3
— Mark Masters (@markhmasters) March 2, 2026
