One of the biggest names on the Flyers that could be traded is Scott Laughton. While we don't know if he is actively being shopped or if it is mere speculation, his name has come up on many sports websites. After all, it makes sense. He is a savvy vet who does the fundamental things correctly. He is a reliable player who makes few mistakes. Laughton also has two remaining years on his contract for the relatively cheap cost of $3 million. So, for a team looking for a center or winger who can fill in on just about any line you can place him, he could be yours.
If the rumors are true, it would seem that Daniel Briere wants at least a first-round pick for him. Some teams may think the price is high, but if you are looking for a reliable guy for a postseason run, there aren't many guys of his talent available. Beggars can be choosers, and the price for a guy like Laughton can run pretty high.
In a recent article by Yahoo Sports, there is some buzz that the New York Rangers could be looking to add Laughton to their roster. Could Laughton be taking his talents to Broadway? Would he be shedding the orange and black to don the red, white, and blue at Madison Square Garden?
The Rangers have been on the rise for the past few seasons. They've been near the top of the Eastern Conference Standings all year and on top of the Metropolitan Division all season. They are one of the favorites to win the East this spring.
However, much like the Dallas Cowboys, they have all the talent in the world, yet they strike out in the postseason. Last year, they were knocked out in the first round by the upstart New Jersey Devils. In the meantime, they are trying to hold off a rising Carolina Hurricanes team. The Rangers are also getting older, and their Stanley Cup window could be closing soon.
Laughton would provide a boost to the team. He could be the sort of guy who puts this team over the edge. However, what would the Rangers give up to give him?
Due to trades over the last few years, the Rangers are starting to run thin on draft picks. Over the next two seasons, they are without a second-rounder. They only have five picks this year, having previously traded away their third and seventh-round picks. They may be reluctant to part with their first-rounder this year, but they could be enticed to do so.
One issue is the salary cap. NY has just shy of $145K in cap space. Granted, they could make other trades or demote someone to the AHL to clear some room. Would the Flyers retain some of Laughton's money this year to help bring in a first-rounder? Even then, would that make sense for the Flyers to do since they still have to pay on Kevin Hayes and Tony DeAngelo for next season?
It would be hard to see Laughton wearing Ranger blue this year and beyond. As of right now, it is only a rumor. But with Blake Wheeler and Filip Chytil both injured, the Rangers could get desperate. Desperate teams make bad decisions when the trade deadline comes around. The Flyers could be able to squeeze them pretty hard.