Trade Pitch Sees Maple Leafs Acquiring High-Value Player in Exchange for Disgruntled Forward

As the NHL offseason progresses, the Toronto Maple Leafs face mounting pressure to resolve the situation surrounding restricted free agent (RFA) Nick Robertson. The young forward, who has requested a trade, might be on the move in a deal that could see him joining the Philadelphia Flyers. According to the new PuckGM tool on PuckPedia, a proposed trade has surfaced that could significantly impact both teams.

The Proposed Trade

In the suggested deal, the Maple Leafs would receive Scott Laughton from the Flyers, while Philadelphia would acquire Robertson and a 2027 third-round pick. This trade could address multiple needs for both franchises.

For the Maple Leafs: Scott Laughton

Laughton, who has two years remaining on a five-year, $15 million contract, would bring added depth to Toronto’s lineup. Projected to slot in as the third-line center, Laughton’s arrival could push Max Domi back to the wing, potentially enhancing the Leafs’ overall forward group. Last season, Laughton registered 13 goals and 26 assists for 39 points in 82 games, showcasing his ability to contribute both offensively and defensively.

Drafted in the first round of the 2012 NHL Draft, Laughton has spent his entire career with the Flyers, amassing 95 goals and 143 assists for 238 points in 601 games. His experience and leadership would be valuable assets for Toronto as they look to solidify their center depth.

For the Flyers: Nick Robertson

Robertson, drafted in the second round of the 2020 NHL Draft, has struggled to secure a consistent role with the Maple Leafs. Last season, he recorded 14 goals and 13 assists for 27 points in 56 games. The move to Philadelphia could provide Robertson with the opportunity to step into a top-six role, offering him a more prominent position than he has held in Toronto.

Sources say that RFA Nick Robertson has no plans to re-sign with the #leafs this summer and has informed the team that he would like to be traded.

— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) July 1, 2024

Robertson’s request for a trade has been well-documented, with NHL insider Chris Johnston reporting that the winger has no plans to re-sign with the Maple Leafs. Despite his potential, Robertson has faced inconsistency and frustration in Toronto, with some healthy scratches and limited opportunities.

Laughton’s Situation and Future

Scott Laughton’s name was previously linked to trade rumors, particularly around the 2024 NHL trade deadline. Despite the speculation, Laughton remained a Flyer and expressed his satisfaction with the team. “Obviously I’ve been here for a long time,” Laughton told The Morning Call. “I take a lot of pride in being a Flyer and being a part of this. You hear all the rumors, I’ve heard them for a while now. But I’ve had conversations with (GM) Daniel (Briere) and (president of hockey operations Keith) Jones throughout the year. They’ve let me know where they’re at with it. It’s a special place to be.”

Robertson’s Future with the Leafs

Despite Robertson’s trade request, Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving remains hopeful about the winger’s future with the team. “I have certainly known that there was some frustration with Nick, but we look at Nick as an excellent player,” Treliving said on July 1. “There is a great opportunity for Nick here. We need him to be a good player for us. I am not going to get into any speculation or public back-and-forth. We will just leave it at that and continue to move forward.”

Conclusion

As the trade rumors swirl, the proposed deal involving Nick Robertson and Scott Laughton presents intriguing possibilities for both the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Philadelphia Flyers. While Robertson seeks a fresh start, Laughton’s potential addition could bolster Toronto’s depth. The coming weeks will be crucial as both teams navigate their roster decisions and prepare for the upcoming season.