Leafs' Scott Laughton Reveals Secret Behind Why His Play Was So Strong in Game 1
Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
Maple Leafs forward Scott Laughton had a difficult time adjusting following trade to Toronto, but revealed why his play in Game 1 finally picked up in a big way.
For veteran forward Scott Laughton, the weeks leading up to the NHL's trade deadline were mentally taxing and stressful.
The career Philadelphia Flyer had made it clear that he did not want to leave the team that had drafted him, but when he was finally traded, the Toronto native was excited to know that, if he had to leave Philadelphia, at least he was coming home.
In 20 regular season games with the Leafs, Laughton left a lot to be desired in terms of his level of production, racking up just 2 goals and 2 assists for a total of 4 points over that span. Granted, the Leafs didn't pursue him for his ability to fill the net with pucks; he was acquired for his strong two-way play and penalty killing acumen.
Even with the obvious struggles, fans were pleasantly surprised to not only see Laughton pot the OT winner in the Leafs' regular season finale against Detroit, but also to see the veteran set up Oliver Ekman-Larsson's opening goal in Game 1 against Ottawa.
Laughton was also credited with 2 hits and won 7 of 12 draws on the evening, posting a very strong 58.3% success rate in the face-off dot in over 15 minutes of ice time.
Following Sunday's win, Laughton revealed why his game has suddenly picked up in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, and it has a lot to do with family.
"I went over to my wife's Nonna's place on Good Friday. They're Italian and she made my pre-game meal for Sunday. Lots of pasta, a couple of meatballs. It was great."
I'm not sure what Nonna put in those meatballs, but it certainly seemed to help Laughton elevate his game when it mattered most -- though the Toronto forward did also mention that being able to see his family so frequently has also been a great feeling.
"After Friday, I was able to see my parents and grandparents on Saturday. That's the cool part of being (home in the GTA). It takes your mind away from everything, keeps you grounded. Having a little one (six-month-old son) is a lot of work, but it keeps you light. So, when you get to the rink, you're ready to go."
As far as his pre-game meal ahead of Game 1 goes, Laughton is strongly considering repeating the meal before Game 2, though he admitted he's not as superstitious as some other players are about their pre-game eating habits.
I might have to go by her place again and pick up a big bowl of pasta again. We'll see. I'm not that superstitious anymore. I was eating McDonalds before every game in the minors, but that went away.
The Leafs gave up a solid package for Laughton that included a 1st round pick and a quality young prospect. The hope is that Laughton can provide a stabilizing presence in the bottom six, not only this season and playoffs, but next year as well.
| POLL | ||
AVRIL 22 | 2654 ANSWERS Leafs' Scott Laughton Reveals Secret Behind Why His Play Was So Strong in Game 1 Are you coming around to the Leafs' acquisition of Scott Laughton? | ||
| Yes | 1937 | 73 % |
| No | 337 | 12.7 % |
| I always liked the deal | 380 | 14.3 % |
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