Fraser Minten Embracing Bigger Role With Bruins

Fraser Minten wants to have a bigger role with the Boston Bruins.

The Bruins acquired Minten at last year’s trade deadline in a package from the Toronto Maple Leafs in the Brandon Carlo trade. The 21-year-old was supposed to be a solid two-way center in the NHL, but to begin the season, he’s had a bigger role.

On Tuesday against the New York Islanders, Minten got the chance to play on the top line alongside David Pastrnak and Marat Khusnutdinov. While he was playing on the top line, he assisted on Khusnutdinov’s game-tying goal.

“It is good that Marco wants me out there at the end of a game where we need a goal,” Minten said, via Bruins.com. “I think it’s an area of my game where I want to contribute. I’m not always the guy who is out there for that, but it was nice to be out there yesterday and have it be successful.”

Minten has skated in 15 games, recording 2 goals and 3 assists for 5 points this season. Although Minten has helped out offensively for the Bruins, he still prides himself on his defensive and two-way game.

“Two-way hockey has always been my calling card and what I focus on,” Minten said. “If you do that right, though, production does come with that. You work on your shot as much as you can, your hands, your skills.

“So when you do get chances, you have the ability to put it in the net. But the main focus is the strong positional stuff, being responsible, moving my feet, playing hard. Being ready when chances do come.”

Minten and the Bruins will return to the ice on Thursday when Boston hosts the Ottawa Senators.