That's unfortunate :/
Like a the previous poster said, there are some options and if you eBay KHS-180A there will be a used and a new version for $180 and $350 respectively (yes, very pricey).
There is also another thread on audiogon with some good info
http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?ddgtl&1357454260&read&keyw&zzscd-777es
and a DIY approach on diyaudio forum. If you google "Sony 777ES laser" it will be in the top two results.
I've been looking to get an SCD-777ES but they are still quite pricey and the more research I have done the more worried I became about it's laser.
I think the player is awesome, and the engineering is amazing and I would love to have one.
I am even considering buying one that has a laser issue and trying to repair it myself. Anyone? hehe