Scott Laughton, the 30-year-old veteran player, who has recently joined the Toronto Maple Leafs, is optimistic about overcoming initial performance hurdles. “The beginning was a bit tumultuous, but I sense that I’m gradually getting my bearings,” was his encouraging statement to the press following Monday’s training session.
The recent Nashville game stood out as a marked improvement for Laughton, an experience he hopes to build upon. The versatile player underlined that his role on the team doesn’t matter as much as his commitment to contribute to the Leafs’ success.
Since his transition from the Philadelphia Flyers in an early March trade deal, his performance has been under the microscope. Despite not scoring in his first eight matches with the Leafs, Laughton remains undeterred. Prior to his move, the Oakville, Ontario native had a commendable tally of 11 goals and 27 points across 60 games for the Philadelphia Flyers.
The shift from the Flyers, with whom he spent his entire 12-year-long career, to the Maple Leafs hasn’t been without its challenges. One of the key adjustments for Laughton has been understanding his place in the new team dynamics. Having evolved into a leadership role with the Flyers, he’s been cautious about asserting himself too quickly with the Leafs.
Speaking of this transition, Laughton admitted, “It’s a delicate balance. You want to step up as a leader without overreaching, especially in the initial phase.” He went on to appreciate his new teammates for their support, adding that he finds it thrilling to play this kind of hockey at this time of the year.
Laughton’s experience of over a decade in the league has endowed him with a keen sense of self-awareness. He knows when he’s in form and when he needs to step up his game. In his brief stint with the Maple Leafs, Laughton has shuffled roles, recently seen practicing alongside Max Domi and Nick Robertson.
Berube, speaking about Laughton’s adjustment to the new team, said, “Joining a new team often means less to worry about, less to do. I don’t want to burden him with too much. He’s equally adept at playing center or wing, having done both throughout his career. We’re just trying to find the right chemistry for him.”
An exciting event for Laughton is on the horizon – a face-off against his former team, the Flyers, at the Scotiabank Arena on Tuesday night. This encounter will mark Laughton’s first game against his old teammates, promising a thrilling spectacle for all hockey enthusiasts.
