Welcome to another edition of NHL Signing News here at Last Word on Sports. Whenever a notable player puts pen to paper, we bring you the latest details and analysis. Today’s focus is on veteran forward Scott Laughton signing with the Los Angeles Kings after reaching unrestricted free agency this summer. Let’s take a look at this deal where Scott Laughton signs with the L.A. Kings.
Kings general manager Ken Holland starts free agency with four key veteran signings in addition to re-signing Scott Laughton.
Scott Laughton Signs with the Los Angeles Kings
Contract: 3 years
AAV: $3.5 million
Forward Scott Laughton signs a new contract with the Kings, adding a versatile veteran capable of playing both centre and wing. The signing comes after Laughton completed the final season of his previous contract and entered unrestricted free agency following a midseason trade from the Toronto Maple Leafs to the Los Angeles Kings.
Laughton split the 2025-26 campaign between Toronto and Los Angeles, combining for 64 games while recording 13 goals and 12 assists for 25 points. Although his offensive production remained modest, he continued to provide dependable defensive play, physicality, penalty killing, and leadership. His ability to move throughout the lineup made him a valuable depth option for both clubs.
Career Background and Playing Profile
The Philadelphia Flyers selected Laughton 20th overall in the 2012 NHL Draft. He spent more than a decade with the organization before brief stints with the Maple Leafs and Kings during the 2025-26 season.
Standing six-foot-one and weighing 190 pounds, Laughton has earned a reputation as one of the league’s most dependable middle six forwards. He can play both centre and left wing while contributing on the penalty kill and in difficult defensive situations. Although never known as a high end scorer, he has reached the 40 point mark multiple times and consistently provides reliable two way play, strong work ethic, and veteran leadership.
Los Angeles goal!Scored by Scott Laughton with 06:03 remaining in the 2nd period.Assisted by Jared Wright.Los Angeles: 2Nashville: 1#NSHvsLAK #GoKingsGo #Smashville
— NHL Goals (@nhlgoals.bsky.social) 2026-04-07T04:11:03.926159Z
What This Means for the Kings
For [INSERT TEAM], this signing adds an experienced forward capable of filling several different roles. Laughton can move up and down the lineup, take important defensive zone faceoffs, contribute on the penalty kill, and provide leadership for a younger roster.
His versatility gives the coaching staff flexibility throughout the season. Whether serving as a third line centre, a checking winger, or a matchup specialist against opposing top players, Laughton offers dependable minutes in all situations.
While he is unlikely to drive offence, Laughton remains the type of player winning teams value because of his consistency, versatility, and willingness to handle difficult assignments. Those qualities should make him a useful addition as [INSERT TEAM] strengthens its forward depth for the upcoming season.
Main photo by: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
