While the move needed to happen, the Flyers trade of Scott Laughton will have a lasting impact on the organization for years to come.
Let's get the basics out of the way first. Laughton needed to be traded as he was not going to be a part of what the Flyers are hoping to become in the next few years. While he provided versatility up and down the lineup, it shouldn't be hard to find someone to replace his on-ice skills. Though his four-goal performance against the Red Wings was a sight to behold. But that is not what is important in this moment.
Scott Laughton's impact felt most off the ice by fans
Scott Laughton made his impact in other places that won't soon be forgotten. His work in the Philadelphia community spans many avenues, but the thing he will be remembered for the most is his work with the LGBTQ+ community. Beginning with James van Riemsdyk in the 2022-23 season, the two donated a group of tickets to members of the Pride community.
Upon van Riemsdyk leaving in the 2023 offseason, Laughton has continued this initiative.
Scott Laughton is an incredible player who really embodied the spirit of Philadelphia. He has done incredible work with the community here through his own Pride night initiatives and with Flyers charities, and on the ice he was truly the king of the power kill. I will miss him 🧡
— Victoria (@fakehockeyteam) March 7, 2025
Laughton was unable to be a part of the Flyers Pride Night this year due to a personal matter, but Joel Farabee carried on as the Flyers' ambassador. And he was sure to point out Laughton's impact.
"I wish Scott was here; he's the one that got me into all this," Farabee said of the night's festivities. "It's a cool night. I think we're all just kind of one big family, so just getting people to feel welcome and getting different groups to come in is what we're trying to do."
But his support didn't just begin 10 years into his career. It is something he has been a part of since he started in the NHL. Laughton has been an ambassador for the You Can Play Project since his career began. He is also an ambassador for the Alphabet Sports Collective, a non-profit organization that aims to create a safer environment for people of all sexual identities in the game of hockey.
laughts, you and your dedication to making the game welcoming for everyone is a contribution that we will never forget and hopefully be able to build on. we love you scotty, best of luck in toronto 🫶 pic.twitter.com/mGQ1Dmp7QV
— alex ✪ (@zuccarellohno) March 7, 2025
Laughton is also a frequent supporter of the Mazzoni Center, a place that has a goal to "provide quality comprehensive health and wellness services in an LGBTQ-focused environment, while preserving the dignity and improving the quality of life of the individuals we serve." A group of over 100 members took in a Flyers game back in January.
i hope laughton knows the work he did in this city with lgbt youth means a lot to a lot of people me included. i felt comfortable getting into hockey in large part knowing there was someone on my team who did that kind of work. he will be missed!
— colette (@deeply_cursed) March 7, 2025
When the NHL decided to ban Pride Night jerseys and then not allow the players to show support on the ice at all, Laughton was one of the first players to speak out. He decided that regardless, he was going to tape his stick no matter what anyone else said. Laughton's dedication to this cause has not gone unnoticed by anyone. Making everyone feel welcome is an ongoing job and something that Laughton will continue to do, no matter where he is.
It's not always about what a player does on the ice and that is especially true in Laughton's case. He had a ton of respect in the Flyers locker room and it was all for good reasons. His leadership and character go far beyond anything he did on the ice.
And for that, he will certainly be missed by many in Philadelphia.