Sabres Trade Rumors: Deal Coming with the Philadelphia Flyers?

The Philadelphia Flyers and Buffalo Sabres could be doing some business together ahead of the trade deadline, which is less than a month away. The focal point of the deal? Flyers centre Scott Laughton.

Laughton is currently being shopped by Flyers GM Daniel Briere and the offers have been coming in early and often since Laughton was named as available. Hockey insider Jeff Marek recently commented on the matter and had this to say:

Marek on 32TP: "I wonder about a team like the Buffalo Sabres as well 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".
— NHL Watcher (@NHL_Watcher) February 9, 2024

Marek sees the potential of a deal going down into the summer months, but things move fast in the NHL and trade talks could very well pick up steam ahead of March 8. Laughton, a two-way centre who has seen his offensive numbers dip this season is known for his character and leadership qualities and is someone who plays a hard-nosed game, something the Sabres could use more of.

Laughton is signed for two more seasons at $3 million and does not hold any trade protection. The 29-year-old Oakville, ON native has recorded five goals and 20 points in 52 games this season for the Flyers. The only thing hanging in the balance for the Flyers ahead of the deadline for Briere to consider is the fact the team is performing well and is sitting third in their division, comfortably in a playoff spot. Why would they want to sell their third-line centre?

Scott Laughton is a player you stay away from for 3 mil / year. pic.twitter.com/qI0PtULDcP
— Memeamoto (@KailerMemeamoto) February 9, 2024

The Center market is relatively thin. Hence, the @NHLFlyers are taking calls on Scott Laughton. They’re not eager to trade him but Danny Briere is gauging the interest.
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) February 1, 2024

Photo credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports