Flyers Trade Rumors: 4 Teams Linked To Scott Laughton

The lack of options on the center market as we approach the trade deadline continues to bump up the value of the few pivots that are available. The Philadelphia Flyers are definitely listening on Scott Laughton. 

The former first-round pick (20th overall, 2012 NHL Draft) is in his 11th season in Philly, and is halfway through a five-year $15 million contract with a $3 million cap hit.

According to the insiders at The Fourth Period, talks around the center were also heating up at the time of the Draft last June, and at that point, the Flyers were said to have turned down a late first-round pick in a trade offer. It's thought that they are still looking for an offer just a bit better than that. They name four teams in pursuit of Laughton:

Colorado Avalanche

The Avs need a second-line center, but it's unclear that Laughton could fill that need with the type of season he's having. His numbers are down across the board, with seven goals, 16 assists and 23 points in 54 games. Flyers head coach John Tortorella has referred to Laughton's season as "inconsistent." He was, however, an 18-goal scorer last year, and perhaps a chance of scenery, with a stronger supporting cast, could raise his game. 

Edmonton Oilers

Another team in need of a top-six forward, Laughton might be more of a fallback option as a top-nine addition.

Toronto Maple Leafs

Despite the hat trick from Bobby McMann Tuesday night, the Leafs are still looking for a boost in their bottom six, and Laughton would no doubt provide that. 

Buffalo Sabres

Hockey insider Jeff Marek recently postulated about this possibility, saying "I wonder about a team like the Buffalo Sabres for Scott Laughton. Again, maybe the offseason, but that's probably a team that's looking for a little bit more snarl and some veteran presence."

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