NHL Insider reveals Maple Leafs nearly acquired Flyers forward

The Toronto Maple Leafs have themselves their 28th general manager in franchise history with today's official introduction of Brad Treliving, who previously served in the same capacity of the Calgary Flames from 2014 through the end of this season. 

He replaces Kyle Dubas, who was terminated by team president Brendan Shanahan not long after the team's 2nd round postseason loss to the eventual Eastern Conference champion Florida Panthers. Dubas has since resurfaced in the NHL, taking the job of President of Hockey Operations for the Pittsburgh Penguins. 

Dubas was extremely active during the 2023 NHL Trade Deadline, bringing in the likes of 2019 Conn Smyth Trophy winner Ryan O'Reilly, former Maple Leafs Round 1 draft pick Luke Schenn, and Erik Gustafsson. That list, however, was nearly augmented by the near acquisition of Philadelphia Flyers forward Scott Laughton. 

According to NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman in his 32 Thoughts podcast on Monday, the Maple Leafs were high on Laughton and sought to bring him aboard. 

"When [Laughton] signed his extension in Philly, I think Toronto was pretty close to trading for him. Obviously, it's a different GM now, so I don't know how Treliving feels. He seems to be the kind of player Treliving would like." 

Because Treliving is now running the show in Toronto, don't be surprised to see him make a big move to kick off his tenure with the Leafs with a major bang. 

Laughton scored 18 goals with 25 assists in 78 games played for the Flyers last season.