‘Hard to put into words’: Maple Leafs’ Laughton, McMann on deadline rumours

Two Maple Leafs are coming to terms with their uncertain futures.

Forwards Bobby McMann and Scott Laughton, two players routinely mentioned in trade rumours, spoke about their time with the Maple Leafs and their feelings ahead of the March 6 deadline on Monday.

“Obviously, I’ve loved it here, have loved my time. That’s all I really can control. I don’t get in the conversations too much,” Laughton said after Monday’s practice.

“I’m a Leaf and that’s where I wanna be, and we’ll see where it goes.”

Added McMann: “That’s hard to put into words. I’m not really necessarily trying to speculate on officially leaving, either. Like I think I just wanna battle here and it’s been fun my whole career. Working my way into the NHL here, giving me the opportunity, I wanna make the most of it and continue to put my best effort forward, no matter the situation.”

Sitting last in the Atlantic at 27-24-9 heading into Monday’s game against the Philadelphia Flyers, the Maple Leafs appear to be firmly out of playoff contention, which has opened the door for Toronto to sell at the deadline.

Laughton and McMann are set to become unrestricted free agents after this season, making them viable targets for teams across the NHL looking for rentals. They also don’t come with big cap hits for this season, as they earn $1.5 million and $1.35 million, respectively.

But even with the Leafs likely out of the playoff spot, both players remain steadfast in their commitment to working hard while playing in Toronto.

“Been a lot of talk. I’m not really trying to pay attention to it as much as I can, but right now we’re just trying to win games and get us feeling good about our game here,” McMann said.

“It’s hard. We have a veteran team, though. I think you show up to work every day and you put your best foot forward,” Laughton added.

“I mean, we’re all still here, right? It’s not up to us, it’s out of our control, and everyone’s in their own situation; has to deal with their own things. But you have to come on the ice and be a unit together. It’s hard sometimes, but at the end of the day, you’re in the NHL and on one of the best franchises. It’s a very humbling opportunity to play here, and it’s a special place.”