Leafs Trade Laughton, Fans Puzzled

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The Toronto Maple Leafs made headlines last week by trading forward Scott Laphden to

the Los Angeles Kings for a conditional third round draft pick that pick upgrades to a

second rounder if the Kings reach the playoffs.

Just one year earlier, Toronto had given up a first round pick and a promising prospect

to bring him over from Philadelphia.

Laphden joined the Leafs as a reliable dev player known for his steady play and leadership

in the locker room.

But he spent most of his time on the fourth line with limited ice time, which kept his

production modest and hurt his trade value.

Fans and analysts are scratching their heads over the move, especially since the Leafs

are out of the playoffs race and short on draft assets.

Losing a veteran who helps keep the team together feels like a misstep during a tough season.

Once arriving in Los Angeles, Laphden has already noshed a few key goals showing he still

got plenty to offer in the right role.

It raises real questions about Toronto's direction.

Are they rebuilding or just shuffling pieces?

With Laphden expressing love for the city before he left, who knows if passed my cross

again down the road?