Steven Lorentz Admits to Strong Former Dislike for New Leafs Linemate Scott Laughton

Steven Lorentz and Scott Laughton have been paired up together so far in training camp and their chemistry has been an unexpected surprise, especially considering how much Lorentz disliked Laughton during their junior hockey days.

While there wasn't too much of an overlap with Lorentz being 2 years younger than Laughton, the former Stanley Cup champion cheekily admitted that he was not a fan of Laughton's, and his reasoning was pretty straightforward.

Laughton, who overheard the question and answer, chimed in from the background and said it probably had to do with the fact that his Oshawa Generals always defeated Lorentz's Peterborough Petes.

Their chemistry and friendship has blossomed pretty quickly considering the fact that Laughton was just acquired from the Philadelphia Flyers at last year's trade deadline.

They've only played a handful of games together, but now paired up in pre-season contests, they have given the Leafs an interesting dynamic within their bottom-6 that can help spread the wealth all throughout the lineup.

That was on full display during last night's pre-season contest against the Montreal Canadiens, as the duo combined for 4 goals and 3 assists, which included the game's first two goals, both off the stick of Laughton.

Easton Cowan completed the trio last night and added an assist to go along with a plus-4 rating. His involvement in the Leafs' bottom-6 has made a world of difference for Craig Berube.

If Cowan continues to shine, not only would that punch his ticket onto the opening night roster, but it will help the coaching staff divvy up the rest of the talent for a more balanced attack.

At this rate, Laughton and Lorentz should start the season together, and if they can keep up their bromance, it will go a long way in stabilizing the lineup and giving them scoring options all throughout.