Maple Leafs reportedly make a decision on Scott Laughton's future in Toronto

Scott Laughton's time with the Toronto Maple Leafs has been with some uncertainty over his long-term future, even despite the pricey return Toronto gave to acquire him.

The Leafs paid a first round pick along with prospect Nikita Grebenkin to the Philadelphia Flyers in exchange for Laughton, a hefty deal to fill a need for the Leafs to add an offensive punch in the team's bottom-six.

The offense Toronto was hoping for has been shoddy, with Laughton producing just seven goals and 11 points in 48 games for the Leafs, largely playing on the fourth line after being acquired as a potential solution at 3C.

Laughton has largely played on the fourth line this season with Nicolas Roy on the third line, but Laughton has been one of the top 4C's in the NHL so far this season.

Returning from a preseason injury, Laughton has shown some positive traits despite his place in the Leafs lineup, and the indication is that Toronto is hoping to have Laughton back.

According to a report from David Pagnotta of 'The Fourth Period', the Toronto Maple Leafs have been engaged in extension talks with Scott Laughton.

Laughton, 31, is a pending unrestricted free agent at the end of this season, and Pagnotta reports that the Leafs have interest in a deal to extend Laughton's contract at a reasonable amount.

Despite not getting the offensive value the Leafs expected, Laughton has been valuable in other ways, such as in the defensive end and as a faceoff taker.

Laughton has also found chemistry on the fourth line next to Steven Lorentz, and has the versatility to play at both center and on the wing.

The Leafs still believe in Scott Laughton's game and view him as important in the overall build of Toronto's roster, and are poising themselves to be able to resign Laughton before he heads to free agency.

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