Scott Laughton, an 11-year veteran who the Leafs have coveted for years could be the answer to both the Leafs depth woes and the pesky situation of Nick Robertson's contract situation. Flyers GM Daniel Briere has decided a rebuild is in order, and while nothing substantial has happened yet; a pact with Toronto could kickstart things.
Laughton's ability on the PK and his drive and passion fit perfectly with Craig Berube's system and one would think the coach could maximize his goal-scoring potential by placing him in well-suited situations. Flyers captain Sean Couturier had high praise for the forward calling him a "glue guy" which any locker room would have; which is why Philly has asked for at least a first-round pick for Laughton. He's coming off a solid two seasons where he had 31 goals and 51 assists which is a big contribution from a third and sometimes fourth-line player.
Robertson, 22, for what it's worth would provide the Flyers with a young upstart presence as Briere navigates his rebuild and would slot in the Top 6, perhaps with Owen Tippett and newest draftee Matvei Michkov and could see top pairing minutes alongside Travis Konecny and Couturier. Robertson, who scored 14 goals last year in limited time would get a chance to shine in Philly, which would afford him the playing time the Leafs don't necessarily have in their future.
It remains to be seen if these former rivals can become friendly, at least for the sake of business but if the Leafs were to pry the glue away from the Flyers; perhaps the cards fall quicker and the rebuild accelerates while Toronto gets to stick themselves to playoff success.
