During the final stretch of the 2024-25 season, the Boston Bruins recalled several of their prospects from the AHL. Fraser Minten was among the most notable, and the 20-year-old forward showed promise while given the opportunity to play on the Bruins' roster.
Minten scored a goal and recorded 12 hits in six games following his call-up, showcasing his physical presence and offensive potential. Overall, the Vancouver, British Columbia native did not look out of place, demonstrating poise and adaptability at the NHL level. Because of this strong showing, Minten is expected to compete for a full-time roster spot next season.
His transition from the AHL was equally impressive. Minten just completed his first AHL regular season split between the Toronto Marlies and Providence Bruins, and he made significant strides. In 37 games, he registered nine goals and 20 points, but his production particularly flourished after joining Providence, where he tallied three goals and seven points in 11 regular-season contests. His ability to elevate his play when given the opportunity underscores his development trajectory.
Minten has also proven his offensive capabilities at the WHL level. During his final WHL season split between the Kamloops Blazers and Saskatoon Blades, he produced 22 goals and 48 points in just 43 games. His ability to make an impact across multiple levels of competition indicates that he has the potential to be a valuable offensive contributor for the Bruins.
Beyond his skill set, Minten’s commitment to improving his game makes him one of the Bruins’ most exciting prospects. With NHL roster spots up for grabs, he has a prime opportunity to showcase his progress and earn a permanent place on the team. If his development continues at its current pace, Bruins fans have every reason to believe he could become a key piece of the franchise's future.
All eyes will be on Minten as he looks to take another leap in his career during the 2025-26 season.
Another Promising Bruins Forward Wants to Stay Put
At the 2025 NHL trade deadline, the Boston Bruins acquired forward Marat Khusnutdinov in the trade that sent winger Justin Brazeau to the Minnesota Wild. With the Bruins needing more youth and Khusnutdinov possessing good upside, it made sense that the Original Six club took a shot on the 22-year-old forward.
Following the trade, Khusnutdinov showed promise, posting three goals, five points, and 18 hits in 18 games for the Bruins. This was after the 2020 second-round pick had just seven points in 57 games for the Wild before the move.
Clearly, the change of scenery and having more opportunities with the Bruins benefited Khusnutdinov. Now, the 5-foot-11 forward is a pending restricted free agent, but if he has it his way, he will stay put in Boston.
While speaking to reporters, Khusnutdinov spoke about enjoying his time in Boston and made it clear that he would love to sign an extension with the Bruins.
"Perfect, perfect, perfect," Khusnutdinov said. "So happy, yeah [if he gets an extension]. One more time, it's the perfect organization... It's good hockey. Good trainers, players, coaches, everything."
Given the fact that Khusnutdinov clearly wants to stay and fit in nicely with the Bruins following the trade, they would be wise to keep him around. They need young players with promise, and Khusnutdinov fits that description. It will be interesting to see if he gets a new deal from Boston from here.
