Bruins’ Minten Debuts as Team Secures Long-Awaited Victory Over Hurricanes

BOSTON, Mass. — Fraser Minten made his Boston Bruins debut Saturday night as the team faced off against the Carolina Hurricanes at TD Garden. Called up from the Providence Bruins, Minten’s addition to the lineup marked a significant step following his acquisition in the trade that sent Brandon Carlo to the Toronto Maple Leafs on March 7.

The 6-foot-2, 195-pound center was inserted into a line with Marat Khusnutdinov and Vinni Lettieri. In his first game, Minten played 14:59, winning 4 of 11 faceoffs and contributing two giveaways while showing promise as a reliable player.

Bruins general manager Don Sweeney noted that Minten’s playing style mirrors that of veteran Charlie Coyle. “He’s been a very reliable player, smart and heady,” Sweeney said about Minten, who was the 38th overall pick in the 2023 draft.

Head coach Joe Sacco praised Minten’s performance, saying, “We’re just looking to see him play a game that he’s been playing in Providence.” Sacco highlighted the importance of Minten adjusting to the NHL pace quickly.

Minten himself expressed his enthusiasm about joining the team, stating, “I think they went out and got me because they thought my game would translate well, and I think it’s been doing that well so far.” He acknowledged the responsibilities that come with being a center but embraced the challenge, saying he enjoys being engaged on both sides of the puck.

Meanwhile, the Bruins snapped a 10-game losing streak, beating the Hurricanes 5-1. David Pastrnak led the charge with a hat trick, while Morgan Geekie supported with five points, contributing to the team’s much-needed victory.

Pastrnak noted the importance of the win amid a disappointing season, saying, “It’s fun to win… so proud of the group, the effort, the block shots, and the commitment to win today was there.”

With this victory, the Bruins improved to a 31-37-9 record, officially ending their playoff hopes for the first time in nine years.

During the game, Pastrnak became the third Bruin to score 40 goals in four consecutive seasons, joining team legends Phil Esposito and Rick Middleton in that accomplishment. His contributions brought his season total to 94 points, making him the fifth Bruin to achieve three consecutive 90-plus point seasons.

Goalie Jeremy Swayman showed his skill, stopping 39 shots and earning his 100th career win. He expressed gratitude for the support from fans, saying, “They stick with us through the ups and downs… to make them happy and to see a home game like this go through for these fans, it’s addicting.”

As for Minten, he now looks forward to building on his debut performance. “It’s been kind of a whole taste of pro hockey in my first year,” he reflected, highlighting the learning experiences he has gained throughout the season.