The Saskatoon Blades have made a major splash in the WHL trade market by acquiring one of the most promising prospects in the league from the Kamloops Blazers. Fraser Minten, a second-round pick of the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft, is heading to Saskatoon along with a 2024 third-round pick in exchange for forward Logan Stankoven, defenceman Inaki Baragano, and a 2024 first-round pick.
Minten adds star power to Blades’ offense
Minten, 19, is a dynamic center who can score and create chances with his speed, skill, and vision. He had 55 points (20 goals, 35 assists) in 67 games with the Blazers last season, and added 16 points (six goals, 10 assists) in 17 playoff games. He also made his NHL debut with the Maple Leafs this season, playing in four games before being sent back to junior.
The Vancouver native is expected to join the Blades immediately and boost their offense, which ranks fifth in the WHL with 3.6 goals per game. He will also provide leadership and experience to a young team that is aiming for a deep playoff run.
Blazers get two quality players and a high pick for Minten
The Blazers did not part ways with Minten easily, as they received a hefty return for their star player. Stankoven, 18, is a talented winger who can score and play with an edge. He had 29 points (16 goals, 13 assists) in 59 games with the Blades last season, and also represented Canada at the 2022 IIHF World Junior Championship, where he had two assists in seven games.
Baragano, 19, is a smooth-skating defenceman who can move the puck and contribute offensively. He had 24 points (four goals, 20 assists) in 68 games with the Blades last season, and also played for Switzerland at the 2022 World Juniors, where he had one assist in five games.
The Blazers also acquired a 2024 first-round pick from the Blades, which could turn out to be a valuable asset in the future. The Blazers are currently second in the WHL’s B.C. Division with a 14-8-2 record, while the Blades are third in the East Division with a 15-9-1 record.
Trade creates buzz and excitement among fans and media
The trade between the Blades and the Blazers was announced on Friday morning, and it quickly generated a lot of buzz and excitement among fans and media. Many praised the Blades for landing a top prospect like Minten, who could become a franchise player for them. Others commended the Blazers for getting a fair return for Minten, who was likely to leave the WHL after this season.
The trade also sparked some debate and speculation about how the WHL’s balance of power would shift as a result of the deal. Some argued that the Blades have become the favorites to win the WHL title, while others suggested that the Blazers have not given up on their championship aspirations.
The trade will also have implications for the NHL, as the Maple Leafs will be keeping a close eye on Minten’s development and performance with the Blades. Minten is one of the Leafs’ top prospects, and they hope that he can become a key part of their future core.
