Scott Laughton Traded to Toronto Maple Leafs in Major NHL Deal

VOORHEES, N.J. — Forward Scott Laughton was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs from the Philadelphia Flyers on Friday, March 7, 2025, ahead of the NHL trade deadline. In exchange, the Flyers received forward Nikita Grebenkin and a conditional first-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft, as well as a fourth-round pick in 2025 and a sixth-round pick in 2027.

The Maple Leafs are bolstering their roster as they sit just two points behind the Florida Panthers for first place in the Atlantic Division with a record of 38-21-3. Laughton, a 30-year-old forward, has recorded 27 points this season, including 11 goals and 16 assists over 60 games.

“Being a Leafs fan growing up, it’s really cool and really special,” Laughton said after the announcement, expressing excitement about joining the team just a short distance from his hometown of Oakville, Ontario.

The Flyers are retaining 50 percent of Laughton’s remaining salary as part of his five-year, $15 million contract, easing the financial impact on the Maple Leafs. “This trade is as tough as they come for me personally and professionally,” Flyers general manager Daniel Briere said, reflecting on Laughton’s integral role in the team over the years. “Scott not only brought back the standard of what it means to be a Philadelphia Flyer, but he set a precedent for our organization moving forward.”

Laughton was drafted by Philadelphia in the first round of the 2012 NHL Draft and has spent his entire NHL career with the Flyers, accumulating 265 points (106 goals, 159 assists) in 661 regular-season games and adding 10 points in 24 playoff games. This season, he notably achieved the only four-goal game in the league against the Detroit Red Wings on December 12.

In a parallel move, the Maple Leafs also acquired defenseman Brandon Carlo from the Boston Bruins. Carlo, who has logged nine points (one goal, eight assists) in 63 games and leads the Bruins with 119 blocked shots, is seen as a valuable asset as Toronto aims for a deep playoff run.

“Oh, man, I think you look at the makeup of this group,” Carlo told reporters, clearly eager about joining the team. “There’s so much respect for the offensive talent and the opportunity that awaits us.”

As the trade deadline looms, these strategic moves highlight the Maple Leafs’ determination to improve their chances this season, while the Flyers continue to reshape their roster for the future. Despite their struggles this season, currently holding a record of 27-28-8, the Flyers remain focused on building around their youth, with Briere emphasizing the need to adapt for the long-term health of the team.

Laughton’s leadership and cultural contributions to Philadelphia cannot be overstated, with many teammates relying on his experience. “He’s critical to our culture. But if there’s something that makes too much sense, it’s our duty to listen and do the right thing,” Briere remarked on the decisions guiding the organization.

The impact of Laughton’s trade will certainly be felt in Philadelphia, as players and fans alike reflect on his decade-long relationship with the team. This reshaping comes amidst broader changes within the league, signifying a transitional period for both franchises.