5 Toronto Maple Leafs Prospects to keep an eye on this season

Fraser Minten

Fraser Minten got a small taste (four games) of the NHL last season. After four games, the Leafs sent Minten back to the Kamloops Blazers in the WHL. The Blazers named Minten team captain, but after seven games, they traded him to the Saskatoon Blades. He registered 22 goals and 27 assists for 49 points in 43 games split between the two teams.

Minten also had the privilege of playing for Team Canada at the World Juniors. He not only got to represent his country on the world stage, but he was Team Canada's captain. Minten registered three points in five games during the tournament. The experience was something he will never forget.

There is a good chance that Minten could make it onto the Leafs main roster again out of training camp. His skill set makes him a good choice for the fourth line and he should eventually be able to climb to the third-line center position.

Minten has a hard shot with a deceptive release, which often fools the goaltender. He also plays well defensively. His shot makes him a good choice for the second power-play unit, and his defensive play would allow him to play on the penalty kill.

However, if Minten doesn't make the Leafs lineup, he will be an asset to the Marlies. With the Marlies, Minten will be put into every situation and get plenty of time on the power play and penalty kill. I think a season in the AHL would help Minten become the full-time NHL player the Leafs know he can be.