Scott Laughton trade value: Why his $1.5M cap hit sets a steep asking price
Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images
Scott Laughton's contract could be key for the Toronto Maple Leafs to get a trade done for the center as the team's previous retention gained last trade deadline when the Philadelphia Flyers took 50% back of Scott Laughton's contract in the deal may have been a help for the Leafs ability to move Laughton this season.
Laughton, who has just eight goals and 12 points in 43 games, has a possible trade value as a mid-round pick with his numbers at $1.5M. But with some money kept on Toronto's side, it could net a much more positive return.
The 31-year-old Laughton sat out Wednesday's game against the New Jersey Devils for "roster management" reasons along with fellow rumored trade pieces Bobby McMann and Oliver Ekman-Larsson.
Laughton's contract, Toronto currently paying $1.5M for him with Philadelphia holding the other 50%, could intrigue teams with 50% retention at $750k, under the league minimum, or even at 25% at $1M. Teams could have a reliable veteran cheaper than a rookie.
The value that Laughton brings as a contract may even outweigh his own value as a player, and give him a serious return for a contending team needing a cost-friendly bottom-six forward in the lineup.
Scott Laughton's contract is a secret weapon for the Leafs
The Toronto Maple Leafs have gained a quiet advantage for their potential trade deadline plans in Scott Laughton's retention situation.
Toronto has all three of their available retention slots open, with the ability to retain on multiple players by Friday's trade deadline, including Laughton, this helps Toronto financially compete against teams with less slots open.
Even if they don't use up all their slots and deal Laughton at $1.5M, it would allow for them to potentially use their slot elsewhere. One name that could be of note is Nicolas Roy.
Although unlikely to be traded, the Leafs have taken calls on Roy. According to a report from Frank Seravalli, the Leafs had held firm at wanting a first round pick and a prospect.
Toronto doesn't want to retain on Roy with their current offers, but a more captivating deal may change things, and could have Roy be the one out rather than Laughton if Toronto gets the value they want.
It's another bonus for Laughton to have him at a cheap cost, something that would allow for them to know what their other trade chips are worth without needing to make Laughton being retained a priority, but if he is retained, it becomes one of the friendliest deals in the league.
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| POLL | ||
MARS 6|632 ANSWERS Scott Laughton trade value: Why his $1.5M cap hit sets a steep asking price Is Scott Laughton worth at least a second round pick? | ||
| Yes | 550 | 87 % |
| No | 82 | 13 % |
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