As the Washington Capitals move through the second half of the regular season, they are actively looking to address a key area of need: their third-line center position. With the team struggling to find consistency and offensive production from that line, management has made it clear that strengthening this role is a priority if they want to make a deep playoff push.
Currently, Lars Eller occupies the third-line center spot, having returned to the team in November. However, despite his experience, the Capitals’ third line has been inconsistent throughout the season. The trio has had trouble maintaining offensive pressure, and their overall stability has been an issue. While the recent addition of Ethen Frank has provided a slight spark, it’s evident that the team will need more depth to compete effectively in the postseason.
According to Frank Seravalli of The Daily Faceoff, one potential solution could be Scott Laughton, the 30-year-old center for the Philadelphia Flyers. Laughton, known for his hard-hitting, two-way game, has been a reliable contributor for the Flyers this season, tallying 26 points in 54 games. His versatility allows him to fill multiple roles, and he is a strong penalty killer, making him a valuable asset for any team. Additionally, Laughton is on a relatively affordable contract, earning $3 million this season and next, which makes him an attractive trade target for the Capitals.
Incorporating Laughton into the third-line mix could give the Capitals a much-needed physical presence, as well as a boost in both offensive and defensive capabilities. His experience and gritty playstyle could complement the addition of young Ryan Leonard, who is expected to make the jump to the professional ranks later this season. If Leonard is able to contribute, pairing him with Laughton could give Washington a well-rounded, hard-hitting third line that can make an impact both offensively and defensively.
With the trade deadline looming on March 7, the Capitals will have several options to explore, but Laughton seems like a potential fit for their needs. If they can secure a deal, the Capitals would significantly improve their bottom-six depth, which could be crucial in their pursuit of a deep playoff run.
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