Laughlin was drafted in 1977 by the Montreal Canadiens. He played for several years with the Nova Scotia Voyageurs of the American Hockey League, Montreal's minor league affiliate, before he made it onto the Canadiens' roster for part of the 1981–82 season. In September 1982, Laughlin was traded to the Washington Capitals in the monster deal that also brought Rod Langway, Brian Engblom, and Doug Jarvis to Washington. His contributions helped guide the Capitals to their first playoff appearance in team history.