Scott Laughton poised as top unrestricted free agent center this summer

Scott Laughton’s future with the Los Angeles Kings remains uncertain as the 2026 offseason approaches. The veteran center, acquired from the Toronto Maple Leafs at the trade deadline, has impressed in his short time with the club. Initial contract discussions between Laughton and the Kings are expected to begin soon.

The free-agent center market looks thin, positioning Laughton as one of the most attractive options if he reaches the open market. His prior asking price hovered around $5 million annually before the trade to Los Angeles.

Laughton’s fit in Los Angeles and mutual interest

David Pagnotta of Daily Faceoff highlighted the situation during a recent appearance on DFO Rundown. He noted that Laughton either has met or will meet with Kings management this week to gauge the team’s direction. Laughton has expressed comfort in his new surroundings and has gelled well with teammates.

“He likes it there. He’s gelled well with that group,” Pagnotta said. Laughton was particularly impressed by the room, including the presence of Artemi Panarin and the leadership of Anze Kopitar before his departure. The player and organization share mutual interest in continuing the relationship.

• Laughton values the team culture and on-ice fit.
• Kings management sees him as a valuable piece moving forward.
• Talks aim to strengthen the bond before any free-agency decisions.

The interim coaching situation under D.J. Smith, with whom Laughton has a prior relationship, could also factor into his choice. The Kings are actively searching for a new head coach, and Laughton may wait to see the outcome before committing long-term.

The thin 2026 center market and Laughton’s value

Pagnotta emphasized that the upcoming free-agent class at center lacks depth once players like Evgeni Malkin potentially re-sign elsewhere. Jason Dickinson and Laughton stand out as the top available pivots, with Boone Jenner also capable of playing the position.

Tyler Yaremchuk echoed similar sentiments on OilersNation Everyday, noting that analytics projections place players like Dickinson in the $5 million range. He warned of potential “sticker shock” this summer given the limited supply of quality centers.

Laughton’s pre-trade negotiations with Toronto centered on roughly $5 million per year. The Maple Leafs declined and moved him instead. Similar figures surrounded other Toronto assets like Bobby McMann, who drew interest around $5.5 million.

Potential outcomes and next steps

The Kings would like to retain Laughton and believe there is a path to an agreement. Pagnotta stressed that the timeline remains fluid, with conversations this week serving as an important indicator.

“Mutual interest from Laughton’s side and the Kings to keep that relationship going” appears strong, according to the report. However, the new coaching hire could influence the final decision.

If no deal materializes, Laughton would enter free agency as one of the premier centers available. His blend of defensive reliability and renewed offensive contributions makes him a desirable target for teams seeking a middle-six pivot.

The coming weeks will clarify whether Laughton stays in Los Angeles or tests the open market in what could be a competitive summer for centers.