Insider reveals the real reason why Maple Leafs traded McMann and Laughton

Jan 12, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA; Toronto Maple Leafs center Scott Laughton (24) takes a shot on goal in the first period at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images | Ron Chenoy-Imagn ImagesAs the dust settles on the 2026 NHL trade deadline, the chatter and speculation surrounding the Toronto Maple Leafs has not diminished. If anything, it’s only picking up.

Part of that chatter is the rationale behind trading Scott Laughton and Bobby McMann.

Heading into the deadline, the odds of moving both players were 50/50. The reason for that situation was the fact that the club attempted to negotiate contract extensions with both players. However, those talks didn’t get very far. As a…