Fraser Minten’s Boston Bruins Return Sparks Reflection on Trade and Journey

BOSTON, MA — Fraser Minten‘s NHL journey took a sharp turn on trade deadline day last season, changing his career trajectory. On February 28, 2025, the Toronto Maple Leafs, who drafted Minten 38th overall in 2022, traded him to the Boston Bruins for defenseman Brandon Carlo.

Minten was in his hotel room with Toronto Marlies teammate Nick Abruzzese, preparing for a game against the Providence Bruins when the news broke. Abruzzese encouraged him to take a pre-game nap, assuring him everything would be fine. However, Minten awoke to a knock on the door from Marlies assistant GM Mike Dixon, who delivered the life-altering news.

“I thought, ‘OK, that’s me,’” Minten remarked after learning about the trade. Shortly after, he was off to new beginnings in Boston, even as he was assigned to the Bruins’ AHL affiliate in Providence.

In Boston, Minten rapidly progressed and became a full-time NHL player in a rebuilding Bruins team. He seized the opportunity to take on the role of a third-line center and has since proven his worth. This Saturday, he will face the Leafs for the first time since the trade, invoking memories of his time in Toronto.

Minten expressed his feelings about the change. “I want him here. He’s a type of player that we like. A lot,” Bruins head coach Craig Berube said in December 2024, praising Minten’s potential. Following a robust AHL stint and a successful training camp, Minten established himself as a reliable player, now participating on the Bruins’ penalty kill and occasionally with the top line.

The 20-year-old acknowledged the challenges that come with playing in a high-pressure market like Toronto. “The hardest thing to manage is trying to ignore that, but it’s really hard to do,” he reflected, discussing the scrutiny young players face. “If you have a good game, it’s like really, really good. If you have a bad game, it’s radio silence.”

Despite his obstacles, Minten remains upbeat about his time in Boston. “I’ve played every game so far and I’m earning more ice time,” he noted. Minten has embraced his role and thrives on the support from Bruins fans at TD Garden. “It’s nice to feel that energy rather than feel that tension that you sometimes feel,” he said.

Minten will return to play against the Leafs with a positive outlook, stating, “It will be hard not to look over and smile.” His journey, while navigating the complexities of professional hockey, reflects not just growth but also opportunity.