Latest News Makes Scott Laughton's Return to Maple Leafs Unlikely

Scott Laughton was thrilled to be headed to his hometown team when the Toronto Maple Leafs dealt for him at the 2025 trade deadline. But after a full calendar year, he was sent to the Los Angeles Kings at this year's deadline, though with the thought that maybe he could return this summer as an unrestricted free agent.

As it turned out, Laughton quite enjoyed his time in LA, as his ice time was boosted by two minutes a game with the Kings. Accordingly, his production went up, and he was simply a much better player on the West Coast.

Now comes word that he has already begun discussions with the Kings on an extension that would keep the pending UFA out of free agency.

Kings and pending UFA Scott Laughton talking this week on a contract extension.

Of note, Laughton was solid in DJ Smith's system after landing in LA at the trade deadline, Kings decision on coach may be impactful.
— Dennis Bernstein (@DennisTFP) May 20, 2026

Dennis Bernstein of The Fourth Period reports that talks are ongoing this week. One thing that Bernstein cautions, however, is that Laughton fit well into interim coach DJ Smith's system. The Kings are currently doing an assessment of their head coaching position, and while Smith is still a candidate for the full-time role, there are others that they're considering.

If Smith is not back, would Laughton decide to take his chances and head to the market?

He spent a full calendar year with the Leafs but was rarely given any ice time from ex-coach Craig Berube other than on the fourth line. He skated only an average of 13:29 per game. That went up to 15:46 with the Kings, and even to over 16 minutes a game in the playoffs. And while Laughton posted just 16 points in 63 games overall in Toronto, he bumped that up to eight points in 21 games for LA.

The 32-year-old's five-year, $15 million deal is expiring, and he could still hit free agency come July 1.