Getting to Know the Bruins New Prospects

Trade deadline has come and gone and the Bruins traded away a few assets for draft picks and prospects.

Today, I take a look at a few of them, their projection, and what we should expect moving forward.

Will Zellers – Left Wing – Green Bay Gamblers – USHL

William Zellers is a name that’s quickly gaining traction in the hockey world. Born in Maple Grove, Minnesota, Zellers has carved out an impressive path in his young career, showcasing his scoring prowess and offensive creativity at every level he’s played. From his early days at Shattuck St. Mary’s to his current standout season in the USHL with the Green Bay Gamblers, Zellers has consistently proven himself as a player to watch.

Career to Date

Zellers first made waves at Shattuck St. Mary’s; a program renowned for producing high-end hockey talent. During the 2023-24 season, he dominated the prep circuit, tallying an astounding 57 goals and 111 points in 54 games. His performance caught the attention of NHL scouts, and he was selected in the third round (76th overall) by the Colorado Avalanche in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft.

This season, Zellers opted to play in the USHL with the Green Bay Gamblers, a decision that has paid off handsomely. He currently leads the league in goals and ranks second in points, solidifying his reputation as one of the top offensive players in junior hockey. His ability to adapt and excel at a higher level has quelled concerns about whether his scoring touch would translate beyond the prep level.

Commitment to North Dakota

Looking ahead, Zellers is committed to playing for the University of North Dakota (UND) starting in the 2025-26 season. UND has a storied hockey program, and the collegiate environment will provide Zellers with the time and resources to further develop his game. His decision to join UND underscores his long-term approach to his career, prioritizing growth and refinement over a rushed path to the professional ranks.

Scouting Report

Zellers is an elite offensive talent with a combination of skill, and hockey IQ.  His quick feet and ability to find gaps in coverage make him a constant threat in the offensive zone. Additionally, his excellent hands allow him to escape pressure and create time and space, whether to prolong possession or set up scoring opportunities. He is also a wizard at eluding the opposition and getting to open ice.

However, Zellers is not without areas for improvement. His play away from the puck is a work in progress and is something that should develop at UND next season. At 5’10” and just 163 pounds he is on the lean side and will need to add strength to compete effectively at higher levels. For a team like the Bruins, who are in a retooling phase, Zellers represents a high-upside prospect worth the waiting for.

The Road Ahead

Zellers is likely to spend at least three years at UND, during which time the Bruins will closely monitor his progress. While he may not be NHL-ready for several years, his strong play in the USHL this season offers hope that he can eventually become a top-six forward at the professional level.

In summary, William Zellers is a player with immense offensive upside and a bright future. While his journey to the NHL may take time, his skill set and work ethic suggest that he has the tools to make a meaningful impact when he gets there. Bruins fans should keep a close eye on this promising young talent as he continues to develop.

Max Wanner – Right Defence – Providence Bruins – AHL

Max Wanner has been an intriguing prospect since his selection by the Edmonton Oilers in the seventh round (212th overall) of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. Hailing from Estevan, Saskatchewan, Wanner’s blend of size, physicality, and puck-moving ability has set him apart as a defenseman with potential. While his development has had its ups and downs, the 6’3″ right-shot blueliner has shown glimpses of becoming a reliable presence on the back end.

Career to Date

Wanner spent his junior career in the WHL with the Moose Jaw Warriors, where he developed into a key piece on their blueline. Over his final two seasons in Moose Jaw, he showcased his ability to contribute offensively, running the powerplay at times and making effective breakout passes. His defensive game also showed steady improvement, as he used his size and mobility to make life difficult for opposing forwards.

Following his time in the WHL, Wanner made his professional debut with the Bakersfield Condors (AHL) in the 2023-24 season. He impressed in his rookie campaign, earning recognition for his physical play, steady puck movement, and surprising offensive contributions in limited opportunities. However, the 2024-25 season has proven more challenging, with inconsistencies in his role and performance leading to questions about his trajectory.

Scouting Report

Wanner is a big, right-shot defenseman who has the tools to carve out a niche at the professional level. He’s mobile for his size, making him effective in transition and capable of executing clean breakouts. Physically, he can be a force, using his frame to win battles along the boards and clear the front of the net. His ability to quarterback the powerplay in the WHL showed his offensive instincts, and he’s proven he can move the puck effectively at higher levels as well.

That said, Wanner’s game remains a work in progress. The various aspects of his skill set have yet to come together consistently, and his performance this season suggests he’s still searching for his identity as a pro. The drop-off in his role and effectiveness has raised questions about his ceiling, but there’s no denying the pieces are there. For the Bruins, who acquired Wanner in a trade last week, his development represents both a challenge and an opportunity.

What Lies Ahead

In Boston’s system, Wanner could have an excellent chance to succeed. The Bruins lack pro-ready defensive prospects, which means Wanner might get opportunities sooner rather than later—especially if he can find consistency. If developed properly, he has the potential to become a dependable third-pairing defenseman who can kill penalties and play a safe, reliable game. His combination of size, mobility, and physicality makes him an appealing depth option for a team looking to build from within.

Ultimately, the question remains: what will Max Wanner become? While there’s no clear answer yet, the Bruins are betting that a change of scenery and a strong development plan can help Wanner unlock his full potential. If he can put the pieces together, he could prove to be a savvy addition to Boston’s blueline depth.

Fraser Minten – Center/Wing – Providence Bruins – AHL

Fraser Minten has steadily built a reputation as one of the most promising young players in hockey. Drafted 38th overall by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft, Minten’s path has been defined by his well-rounded game and ability to make an impact in various areas of play. The talented forward, who hails from Vancouver, British Columbia, has quickly transitioned from junior hockey to becoming a noteworthy name within professional hockey circles.

A Steady Ascent

Minten spent his junior career in the WHL with the Kamloops Blazers, where his blend of skill, hockey IQ, and physicality was on full display. Across his WHL seasons, he established himself as a dependable two-way center capable of contributing offensively and taking on key defensive responsibilities. In his final season with the Blazers, Minten posted 67 points in 54 games, showcasing his offensive growth and earning a long look from the Leafs’ brass.

In his first professional season, Minten has taken significant strides with the Toronto Marlies (AHL). His mature approach to the game, which was evident during his WHL days, translated smoothly to the pro level. So much so, in fact, that Minten has earned several call-ups to the Maple Leafs, where he’s filled a bottom-six role effectively. His versatility has been a major asset, allowing him to adapt to the demands of different game situations.

Scouting Report

Minten’s game is defined by his well-rounded nature. While he may not possess standout skills in any single area, his effectiveness is displayed by his three-zone ability. Whether it’s winning battles along the boards, breaking up plays in the defensive zone, or finding soft spots in coverage for scoring chances, Minten excels at the little details that help his team succeed.

Offensively, Minten has flashed potential as a goal scorer. His quick release and soft hands around the crease make him a threat near the net. Though not overly flashy, he has a knack for making smart plays with the puck, leading to scoring opportunities for himself and his linemates.

Physically, Minten isn’t afraid to engage, bringing an edge to his game that coaches appreciate. That said, there’s room for him to improve his physical consistency by adding strength, which would further elevate his play along the boards and in front of the net.

While Minten doesn’t project to be a game-changing offensive star, his hockey intelligence and versatility make him a valuable asset. He has the potential to develop into a low-end second-line or high-end third-line center who can contribute on both special teams. His ability to play a reliable, all-around game means he’s the type of player every coach value in their lineup.

What’s Next for Minten?

The Bruins acquired Minten at the trade deadline, aiming to inject youth and versatility into their system as part of their rebuilding efforts. With the team shifting its focus to the future, Minten is expected to get an extended look with the Bruins this season, especially as they evaluate options for their lineup heading into next year.

Minten’s ability to play in various roles makes him an appealing candidate for consistent NHL action sooner rather than later. If he continues his steady development, Bruins fans can expect Minten to become a key piece of their forward corps—a dependable, team-first player who can make an impact in critical moments.