Toronto Maple Leafs' Trade Falls Through as Western Conference Captain Declines Move, Forcing Backup Plan

Brad Treliving added to his team's center depth today as he acquired veteran forward Scott Laughton from the Philadelphia Flyers.

The team sent a 1st round draft pick and prospect Nikita Grebenkin to the Flyers in exchange for Laughton at 50% retained.

However, it seems as though Laughton was not his first or even second choice.

Yesterday, it came out that Treliving was hoping to make a deal with the Nashville Predators for Ryan O'Reilly, but Barry Trotz was unwilling to move the veteran without his permission.

This afternoon, NHL insider Julien McKenzie revealed that the Leafs preferred St. Louis Blues captain Brayden Schenn over Laughton as well, but this time the veteran was unwilling to waive his trade protection to go to Toronto.

That being said, adaptability is the name of the game in the NHL, especially on trade deadline day.

Every GM around the league knows that their top targets may very well get snagged by other teams so you have to have backup plans in place.

Laughton certainly isn't a terrible backup plan as he was one of the most sought after centers on the market.

Laughton is a reliable veteran who can play in all situations and chip in offensively.

This season he has 11 goals and 27 points through 60 games. However, his advanced analytics do not look great, which is an indicator that perhaps Treliving will regret this move, especially considering the cost.

Laughton i up to 106 career goals and 265 points in 661 games, all with the Flyers.

Look for him to make his debut with the Leafs as soon as tomorrow as the team visits the Colorado Avalanche, who have been making moves of their own.