While the Leafs could make a deadline deal to address their center depth, perhaps they should instead give one more shot to 20-year-old Fraser Minten.
Fraser MintenThe Toronto Maple Leafs are evaluating their options at the NHL trade deadline, with an eye on acquiring a center to bolster their depth.
While pursuing a potential trade is still on the table, 20-year-old Fraser Minten might offer a more intriguing, cost-effective solution in that role.
Minten, who was drafted 38th overall by Toronto in 2022, has exceeded expectations, particularly with the Toronto Marlies, where he has shown offensive promise alongside his strong two-way play.
However, the idea of Minten being the solution to the Leafs’ center issue isn’t without its concerns.
Although Minten’s game is built on high hockey IQ and defensive responsibility, it’s important to note that the line featuring Minten, Max Domi, and Nick Robertson has had limited success in their limited minutes this season. In their 14 minutes together, they were outscored 2-0 and outchanced, according to moneypuck.com. Even with Robertson and Lorentz in the lineup, they faced similar challenges.
But there is potential for growth here: with the right circumstances, Minten’s two-way game could complement the offensive upside of Domi and Robertson, forming a more balanced third line that adds both defensive stability and offensive punch as the team heads into the playoffs.
Minten’s recent play with the Marlies is encouraging. After being held off the scoresheet for 10 games with the Maple Leafs following a strong start with five points in five games, he’s now riding a three-game point streak with the Marlies, showing he’s rediscovered his scoring touch.
This could signal that with further opportunity, Minten might be able to find chemistry with Domi and Robertson, and the line could click in the right situation. The Leafs should give Minten a longer look at the third-line center role before making a bigger trade for a rental.
If Minten performs well in this extended trial, then the team could confidently roll with him as a viable short-term solution at 3C, allowing them to save valuable trade assets. If he doesn’t convince, he still gains invaluable experience, which could help him develop for a future opportunity, while the Leafs can pursue a rental to help down the stretch.
Ultimately, Minten’s development is a key story for the Leafs. If he can solidify himself as a reliable NHL center, it would be a huge win not just for the team, but also for their player development system. With salary cap constraints looming, Minten could serve as both a short-term answer at 3C and a future asset. The Leafs may already have the missing piece in-house—now it’s about giving him the opportunity to prove it.
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