Scott Laughton's emotional goodbye after trade: 'It was a dream come true'

Toronto made a few deadline deals that although brought back some draft assets, didn't exactly bring the return fans had anticipated or expected. Nic Roy, Bobby McMann, and Scott Laughton were all sent away and it signalled a change in direction for the Maple Leafs -- one that is going to lead to much more going forward.

For the Oakville native, the move was a bittersweet one as he was only around his childhood team for about one full season combined from last year and this one. But while it wasn't a long time, it certainly was a memorable one for Laughton and made sure to give the fans and team love on the way out:

The post also shares a picture of Laughton having some fun with his infant son who was behind the glass, and it shows just how much he enjoyed his time here.

Clicking instantly in the locker room, Laughton built up a bond with rookie Easton Cowan and per the rookie himself, was instrumental in helping shape his early career and that it's going to be upsetting if he were to go; so unfortunately for Cowan he'll have to hope he comes back in free agency.

Laughton's time in Toronto was short, playing less than a full season total between this year and last:

Games - 63
Goals - 10
Assists - 6
Plus/Minus - Minus-Five
Hits - 127

He's going to help out the Kings PK considerably, and if he is able to shutdown opponents for long enough this season, the Maple Leafs' conditional pick they acquired for Laughton jumps from a third to a second -- that's at least more tolerable.

Laughton will be a free agent at the end of the season, and as previously stated, he could come back in the summer however Toronto is likely going to be looking for a discount. If Laughton plays well enough to earn a raise, then it's unlikely he makes his way back and Toronto really shouldn't overpay if they haven't already cleared up other issues.

It was short, but it was sweet for Scott Laughton. He got to do what he dreamt of as a kid and followed many other Maple Leafs who grew up as fans and later took the ice for them.

Perhaps it wasn't as long as he had hoped, but it sounds like Laughton enjoyed every single second.

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