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Report: Red Wings, Avalanche among teams interested in Maple Leafs’ Scott Laughton

Photo credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
By Alex Hobson
Mar 5, 2026, 11:15 ESTUpdated: Mar 5, 2026, 11:09 EST
The Toronto Maple Leafs appear to be committed to selling off some pieces at the trade deadline, and according to a new report from The Athletic’s Chris Johnston, Scott Laughton is starting to generate some interest around the league.
In Johnston’s latest article surrounding the Maple Leafs and their deadline plays, Johnston mentioned that the Detroit Red Wings and Colorado Avalanche have both checked in on Laughton and expressed interest in his services. Below is an excerpt from the article.
“While the 31-year-old native of nearby Oakville, Ont., would love to stay, and management has indicated a general willingness to keep him, there had been no serious contract negotiations before Laughton was held out of Wednesday’s game, according to league sources. A high-character, no-maintenance veteran, Laughton would bring attractive depth to any team bracing for a playoff run. The Colorado Avalanche and Detroit Red Wings are among those who have poked around.” -Johnston
Laughton was acquired by the Maple Leafs at the 2025 NHL Trade Deadline, and despite the hefty price they paid to get him (a first-round pick and prospect Nikita Grebenkin as the main chips in the return), he was somebody that played a crucial defensive role for them in the playoffs. When he returned from injury in November 2025, he won the hearts of fans over due to his resilience on the ice and clear passion for playing for the Maple Leafs. Unfortunately, Laughton hasn’t been utilized much above the fourth line and thus, his offensive game hasn’t improved a ton with eight goals and 12 points in 43 games. Still, with the Flyers retaining half of his deal, he would be an attractive trade chip for contending teams looking for an excellent veteran presence and somebody who can kill penalties and win draws.
The Maple Leafs have one more game before the trade deadline when they visit the New York Rangers on Thursday night and look to snap a five-game losing streak coming out of the Olympic break.
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