Can Scott Laughton Make The Flyers Roster?

The Philadelphia Flyers have a history of drafting successful players in the first round of the NHL Draft. Guys like Peter Forsberg, Simon Gagne, Mike Richards, and Claude Giroux to name a few.

This year’s first rounder Scott Laughton has a chance to make a name for himself as well.

After the 18-year old centremen signed a three-year entry-level contract with the team, an opportunity to make the roster out of training camp arose.

So, can this very young kid actually come out of this fall’s camp with a roster spot?

It is definitely possible. I mean, look at what happened with the Flyers 2011 pick Sean Couturier. If Laughton impresses head coach Peter Laviolette and company at camp, the very same could happen to him.

From watching him at prospect camp this past July, I could tell that Laughton would work as hard as possible to improve his game. He is a defensive-minded two-way center who has tremendous character. Laughton certainly isn’t afraid to drop the gloves either, fighting twice during scrimmages. My favorite aspect of Scott Laughton is his willingness to stick up for his teammates in any situation.

Sounds like he will fit very well into the Flyers style of play.

But Laughton will have to earn his spot out on the ice.

Although Scott will make a very good second or third line center in the NHL, the Flyers have a ton of depth at the position already. Giroux, Danny Briere, Couturier and Brayden Schenn make up the current centers. This could make it more difficult for Laughton to land a roster spot.

But there is no denying that the kid’s game is sound.  He has a very high hockey IQ and reads the ice well. He also has a very strong shot, especially from the slot. Responsibility with the puck is another strength in his game.

Recently hired Director of Player Personnel and former Flyer Ian Laperriere liked what he saw in Laughton during prospect camp.

“He knows what people like here, he knows what the Flyers are all about. He just went in there. For me, it stood out big time.”

However, Laperriere isn’t the only one Laughton has to impress.

If Scott Laughton doesn’t find himself on the team this year, there is not a doubt in my mind that he will be wearing the orange and black very soon. He fits the Flyers mold perfectly, and will work his tail off to make it in the NHL.

Adam Pfeifer is a contributing writer covering the Philadelphia Flyers for Rant Sports.

You can follow him on Twitter @Pfeiifey for news regarding the Flyers.