One option would be to get a TB2 dock (e.g. It is this video signal which is able to drive the monitor connected directly to the dock.
So, on your 2017 MBP, the "USB-C" ports are actually Thunderbolt 3, which includes displayport over USB-C. But I'm wondering if there are any Thunderbolt 2 (mini DP style) to USB-C type adapters that would reduce the clutter from three to two cables? Question is: What kind of adapter/cable should I get to connect my 2013 MacBook Pro to this dock to get maximum functionality with minimal cable clutter? My first thought is to use an HDMI cable for the direct-to-dock display, a USB A to C cable for all other peripherals and the stock MagSafe 2 adapter for charging. The dock has one HDMI (that I'm using) 2 DisplayPort plugs marked ++ but I don't know if they/re input/output/both/support daisy chaining etc or not. My displays have 2 HDMI and 1 VGA inputs each. My understanding is that I probably won't be able to charge it through the dock since it uses a MagSafe connector, but I'm wondering if there's any adapter I can get to connect both monitors at the dock, without having to switch cables behind the dock? When I connect it to the dock via a USB3 type A to type C cable, I get the DisplayLink monitor (which makes sense as it's a USB peripheral) and other USB devices, but not the direct HDMI monitor or charging. I'd like to have a similar setup for the 2013 model as well. This setup is super convenient for me with the 2017 MacBook Pro as I can charge the device, use both displays and a bunch of other USB peripherals all over a single cable.
I have two 1080p HP displays attached one is through HDMI straight to the docking station and the other goes through the HDMI input on a DisplayLink USB 3 adapter and connects to a USB3 port on the dock. I use a HP USB-C Dock G4 docking station for the 2017 model. I have two MacBook Pros, a 2017 model with Thunderbolt 3 ports, and a late 2013 Retina with TB2 and USB3 ports.