By: Chad Jones | Follow me on Twitter/X @ShutUpChadJones
Through 41 games, Fraser Minten was doing just fine for the Boston Bruins. The 21-year-old forward had potted six goals and had dished out nine assists. The Bruins front office and coaching staff had to be pleased with how Minten was performing in his first full season in an NHL lineup.
At the season’s halfway point, Minten had shown a high motor, responsible habits in his own zone, and a willingness to compete. And it was clear that Bruins Head Coach Marco Sturm trusted the young forward with important ice time.
Minten averages 1:47 of shorthanded time on ice per game. That is good for seventh on the Bruins roster. Only veterans Sean Kuraly and Mark Kastelic contribute more time as forwards on Boston’s penalty kill.
Minten had carved out his role as Boston’s third-line center. He had shown some offensive prowess, especially in finding open ice and generating high-danger chances. However, it appeared Minten would need more reps to really find his scoring touch at this level.
But then came January 3rd. The Bruins were set to take on the Canucks in Vancouver for a Saturday night tilt. Minten, who hails from Vancouver, scored twice that night, including the overtime game-winner. In attendance were many family members and friends.
And since that night, the centerman has been on an offensive tear. In 14 January games, he potted eight goals and dished out six assists while remaining responsible in his own zone.
He had been so productive offensively that Sturm trusted him to center the second line with Elias Lindholm out of the lineup. Thursday night against the Philadelphia Flyers, Minten was centering Casey Mittelstadt and Viktor Arvidsson. And the trio was nothing short of a buzz saw.
The line gave Philadelphia problems all night long, and Minten was constantly in on the action. He scored a goal off the rush, picked up two assists, and showed phenomenal chemistry with his new linemates. It was Minten’s second three-point performance of the month.
Minten showed early in this season that he would be a solid player in his own zone and valuable on the penalty kill. But this most recent offensive surge shows that his offensive skill set is developing faster than many anticipated.
He is using his speed, skating ability, and vision to contribute mightily to the Bruins’ offensive attack. As he continues to develop his shot and stick-handling ability, Minten will only become more dynamic in the offensive zone. The present and future appear bright for the 21-year-old center.
The Bruins will be partaking in the NHL’s 2026 Stadium Series later today. Boston is set to take on the Atlantic Division-leading Tampa Bay Lightning at Raymond James Stadium. The Bruins will then take on the two-time defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers before enjoying their three-week break for the Winter Olympics. If you want to see the Black and Gold in person at TD Garden or on the road, consider using this official StubHub Ticket-affiliated link here for the most competitive concert and sporting event tickets in the North American region.
Leave a Reply