The Maple Leafs prospects were back in action on Thursday, kicking off the Traverse City prospects tournament against the Columbus Blue Jackets prospects. The result of the game wasn't the one that the Leafs were hoping for, I'm sure, dropping a 7-3 decision to the Jackets, but there were some bright spots in the loss.
Toronto Marlies head coach John Gruden drew the responsibility of coaching this year's prospect team in Traverse City and one of the main takeaways for him was how solid Fraser Minten was as a leader both on the ice and on the bench. Minten played on a line with Matthew Knies and Ty Voit, and finished the game with 1 assist and 4 shots on goal.
Minten recently wore the "C" for the Kamloops Blazers during a preseason game and there are some who believe that he may be named captain of his WHL club this season. The leadership qualities are undeniable. If Gruden has taken notice, you can bet your bottom dollar that the Leafs have taken notice.
Minten will attend Leafs training camp at the conclusion of the Traverse City tournament, but he is not expected to make the team out of camp this season. He appears earmarked to return to Kamloops to play big minutes for the Blazers and dominate the competition before turning pro next season. The 19-year-old produced 31 goals and 67 points in 57 games for the Blazers last season.
