Pending trade between the Flyers and Blues is actually very beneficial for the Leafs

Blues rink-side reporter Jeremy Rutherford mentioned the name Scott Laughton yesterday as well, and if Laughton ends up being a part of this deal, that would make 2 centers coming in for the Blues - which, believe it or not, would be great news for the Leafs.

While the Leafs are not expected to be involved in this deal in any facet, they stand to be among the biggest beneficiaries of such a move, as it very likely takes another option off the board for Ryan O'Reilly, whom some believed may have returned to the Blues this summer as a UFA. Well, if the Blues are bringing in a center or two via trade, that dampens the likelihood that they'd consider bringing O'Reilly back.

For O'Reilly, there are still going to be options available. He's a 32-year-old Stanley Cup winner and former Conn Smythe Trophy winner. He plays a strong two-way game and does all of the right things. Plus, as we know, teams love experienced, accomplished guys - especially down the middle of the ice.

However, with the Blues and Flyers coming together on this deal, plus with the Colorado Avalanche having brought in Ryan Johansen to bolster their center position yesterday as well, the Leafs now represent the most familiar option to O'Reilly, which could be vitally important when it comes to attempting to sign the veteran pivot.