3 Potential Trade Destinations for Maple Leafs' Scott Laughton

The Toronto Maple Leafs are continuing to lose, and they should be sellers at the 2026 NHL trade deadline because of it. One of the Maple Leafs' top trade candidates with the deadline almost here is pending unrestricted free agent (UFA) center Scott Laughton.

Because of this, let's look at three teams that could look to acquire Laughton ahead of the deadline.

Colorado Avalanche

The Avalanche should be on the hunt for another bottom-six forward ahead of the deadline as they prepare for the playoffs. With this, it would make a lot of sense if the Avalanche made a big push for Laughton. If they acquired him, he could form a strong fourth line with Gavin Brindley and Parker Kelly.

Edmonton Oilers

The Oilers need help down the middle in their bottom six, so it would make a lot of sense if they tried to land Laughton. He would slot nicely as their fourth-line center and would be a clear option for their penalty kill if acquired. His $1.5 million cap hit would also not be too hard for the Oilers to fit financially.

Vegas Golden Knights

The Golden Knights must improve their forward depth, and bringing in a center like Laughton would make sense for them because of it. He would provide them with another impactful two-way forward on their bottom two lines. His physical style of play could also make him a fit on a team with high expectations like Vegas, but especially during the playoffs.