Fraser Minten, now 21, vividly recalls a Zoom interview that changed his trajectory as an NHL player. Back in the spring of 2022, during his draft year, Minten connected remotely from his parents’ home in downtown Vancouver with Brian Burke, who was then a commentator at Sportsnet. Reflecting on the interview, Minten remembered Burke appearing somewhat disinterested initially, slouched in his chair with an undone tie, but as the conversation progressed, the atmosphere shifted.
“Progressively, as it went on, he kind of started sitting up and paying more and more attention,” Minten said with a smile. By the end of the interview, Burke remarked, “Make sure you tell your parents they did a good job raising you,” a compliment that left a lasting impression on Minten.
Burke himself later described the interview as one of the best he had experienced, likening Minten to other top-tier players he had encountered in his lengthy career, which includes stints with the Vancouver Canucks and Toronto Maple Leafs. Nearly four years since that moment, thoughts of Minten still resonate with Burke, who believes he is among the elite prospects he wished he could draft repeatedly.
Fast forward to today, Minten is carving out his role with the Boston Bruins after being acquired last March from the Maple Leafs, who selected him 38th overall in the 2022 draft. As he approaches his 77th NHL game, Minten has been contributing significantly, registering 12 goals and 11 assists in 51 games, aided by a consistent position on the Bruins’ second power-play unit and increased ice time from the coaching staff.
Boston Bruins coach Marco Sturm has praised Minten’s quick adaptability, noting his willingness to learn and implement feedback. Unlike many young players who require repetitive drills for improvement, Minten seems to grasp concepts almost instantly. This property has sparked enthusiasm among the coaching staff, as Sturm expressed that “quick studies are a coach’s dream.”
Minten is cognizant of the areas he still aims to enhance as he hones his skills in the league. He has set specific goals, including improving his faceoff percentages, finding high-percentage scoring spots on the ice, and utilizing his frame, measuring 6 feet 2 inches and weighing 205 pounds, effectively. He believes that excelling in these areas can lead to increased playing time.
“We’ve got to go in high-danger spots for rebounds, tipping pucks, one-timing,” he explained regarding where to position himself during offensive plays. Moreover, focusing on physical strength and conditioning in the weight room is essential to excel during the grind of the NHL season.
In addition to his on-ice development, Minten has absorbed valuable advice from Bruins assistant coach Chris Kelly, who emphasized a mentality of reliability before showcasing offensive contributions. This mindset has ingrained a sense of responsibility in Minten as he navigates the demands of professional hockey.
Interestingly, after that pivotal interview with Burke, Minten followed up with his parents regarding Burke’s kind words, only to find that they didn’t recognize the influential figure in hockey. Burke, taking the jest in stride, humorously reflected on the missed opportunity.
In related news, former Bruins goalie Linus Ullmark recently opened up about his struggles with anxiety, sharing that his recent leave of absence was a step in addressing ongoing mental health challenges, stemming from past experiences in his career. Ullmark highlights the importance of mental wellness and assures those who struggle that it’s okay not to feel okay.
Lastly, Bruins coach Sturm has articulated his perspective on youth hockey setups, specifically contrasting the absence of burnout often experienced by young players in Germany to the pressures faced by their North American counterparts. Sturm attributes lifestyle differences and community-based coaching styles to this beneficial approach to youth sports.
As teams gear up for the upcoming trade deadline, speculation is circulating around various players, illustrating a landscape filled with potential shifts, including the possibility of trades involving key veterans.