Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman noted as part of his 31 Thoughts column this week that the Philadelphia Flyers are listening to offers for winger Scott Laughton. He notes there hasn’t been much contract extension talk between the UFA and the team and there would be a few clubs interested if Laughton became available.
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Friedman said he could see the Pittsburgh Penguins with interest in the Flyers forward and as the Penguins are keenly interested in adding some grit and sandpaper to their lineup ahead of the deadline. The Pens are looking for a center thanks to some recent injury issues at the position and Laughton likely wouldn’t be an expensive add.
There’s also been chatter that Toronto has considered him as an option. Kyle Dubas noted that Alex Galchenyuk has changed things a bit for the Maple Leafs as they aren’t feeling the pressure they once were to go out and add a forward. “But with all that said, if we can do something that we think is going to be a good fit in the locker room and on the ice, I think we would still very openly explore that,” Dubas said. That something could be Laughton as he’s a less expensive option than someone like Columbus Blue Jackets captain Nick Foligno or New Jersey Devils forward Kyle Palmieri would be.
When asked about the fact that the Penguins and Flyers aren’t likely to make a direct trade, Friedman did admit a third team would need to get involved, but there is a history of that sort of thing dating back to the Mark Streit trade.
How Does Laughton Feel About a Trade?
When asked about the rumors his name was out there ahead of this year’s trade deadline, Laughton said, “Yeah, it really hasn’t crossed my mind. If it happens, it happens.” He added, “My focus is here in Philly. I love it in Philly. I love the staff here, I love the guys here. I’m focused on trying to come to work everyday, get better, push the pace a little and try to get a playoff spot.”
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