Scott Laughton Finds Quick Fit with LA Kings

Veteran forward embraces new opportunity after mid-season trade from Toronto Maple Leafs

Apr. 8, 2026 at 9:19pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey player in motion, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the LA Kings' uniform.The LA Kings' midseason acquisition of forward Scott Laughton has provided a boost of energy and versatility to the team's playoff push.Los Angeles Today

After being traded to the LA Kings around the NHL trade deadline, veteran forward Scott Laughton has quickly adapted to his new team and city. Despite the hectic schedule of being traded and joining a new team, Laughton has settled in well, contributing on the ice and becoming a popular teammate in the locker room. The Kings have embraced Laughton's hard-working style of play and leadership qualities, with coach D.J. Smith praising his intangibles and ability to play in any situation.

Why it matters

Laughton's successful transition to the Kings highlights the team's ability to integrate new players mid-season and the value of veteran depth additions as the playoff race heats up. Laughton's versatility and leadership have provided a boost to the Kings, who are fighting to secure a postseason berth.

The details

The Kings acquired Laughton from the Toronto Maple Leafs at the trade deadline, with the deal being one of the last to be finalized. After a late-night flight to join his new team, Laughton was immediately inserted into the lineup, beginning a stretch where 8 of his first 11 games with the Kings came on the road. Despite the whirlwind, Laughton has found success, tallying 5 goals and 7 points in 16 games. He's been a strong presence in the faceoff circle and on the penalty kill, while also chipping in offensively. Laughton's former junior coach, D.J. Smith, now the Kings' interim head coach, has praised Laughton's team-first mentality and ability to positively impact the locker room.

  • Laughton was traded from the Toronto Maple Leafs to the LA Kings on March 6, 2026.
  • Laughton made his Kings debut on March 7, 2026 against the Montreal Canadiens.
  • The Kings are currently on a critical 7-game homestand, where Laughton has found the back of the net twice.

The players

Scott Laughton

A veteran forward who was recently traded from the Toronto Maple Leafs to the LA Kings. He has quickly adapted to his new team and is providing valuable contributions on the ice and in the locker room.

D.J. Smith

The interim head coach of the LA Kings, who previously coached Laughton in junior hockey with the Oshawa Generals. Smith has praised Laughton's team-first mentality and ability to positively impact the locker room.

Anze Kopitar

The veteran captain of the LA Kings, who has highlighted Laughton's great teammate qualities and important role as a 'perfect role player' for the team.

Drew Doughty

A veteran defenseman for the LA Kings who has expressed his happiness with the team's acquisition of Laughton, saying he 'can't say enough good things about him.'

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What they’re saying

“He's a great teammate, first and foremost. I think he's a perfect role player. We use him in just about with anything, great on faceoffs, huge part of our penalty kill and he's working his ass off. He's been a great addition to our team.”

— Anze Kopitar, LA Kings Captain

“Even when I had him in juniors, when he was the big dog, he didn't act like it and he's always looking out for his teammates. He's been around the league for a long time and he doesn't take himself too seriously, he understands how to play the game, he plays the game hard. I think guys respect the way he plays and respect that he's a good teammate.”

— D.J. Smith, LA Kings Interim Head Coach

“I can't say enough good things about him and I'm really happy to have him.”

— Drew Doughty

What’s next

Laughton's focus is on helping the Kings secure a playoff berth and make a deep postseason run. While he has expressed openness to potentially extending his time in Los Angeles, those discussions will likely wait until the offseason, as his priority is on the team's current season goals.

The takeaway

Scott Laughton's seamless transition to the LA Kings demonstrates the team's ability to integrate new players mid-season and the value of veteran depth additions. Laughton's hard-working style, leadership qualities, and versatility have provided a boost to the Kings as they fight for a playoff spot, highlighting why he has quickly become a popular teammate in the locker room.