The Toronto Maple Leafs may be facing some hard truths about player evaluation and asset management, as two former prospects, Alex Steeves and Fraser Minten, are now thriving with the Boston Bruins. The Leafs' decisions to let these young talents leave the organization are being heavily scrutinized, especially as the team struggles to find consistent offensive production and secure a solid playoff position.
Alex Steeves, signed by Toronto as an undrafted free agent in 2021, consistently put up impressive numbers with the Toronto Marlies of the AHL, amassing 216 points in 247 regular season games over four seasons. However, he only appeared in 14 NHL games with the Leafs, often in limited roles that didn't allow him to showcase his offensive capabilities. Frustrated by the lack of opportunity, Steeves signed with the Boston Bruins as a free agent on July 1. Since joining the Bruins, Steeves has quickly become a valuable asset, even earning a spot on the team's top line. His speed, physicality, and scoring touch have filled a void in Boston's lineup, while the Leafs are still searching for a winger with his skillset.
Fraser Minten, a second-round pick by the Leafs in the 2022 NHL Draft, was traded to the Bruins at last season's trade deadline in exchange for defenseman Brandon Carlo and two draft picks. While Carlo is a solid defensive player, the move is now being questioned as Minten is demonstrating significant potential in Boston. Minten is currently centering the Bruins' third line and is contributing offensively, with two goals and three assists in 16 games this season. His two-way game and success in the faceoff dot (51.5 percent) have made him a reliable player for the Bruins.
The departure of Steeves and Minten highlights a potential flaw in the Maple Leafs' development and evaluation process. Despite their consistent performance in the AHL and flashes of potential in limited NHL opportunities, the Leafs didn't see them as part of their long-term plans. Instead, they opted for other players who, so far, haven't provided the same level of impact.
The Bruins, on the other hand, recognized the potential in both Steeves and Minten and provided them with the opportunity to succeed. This situation serves as a reminder that sometimes a change of scenery and a fresh opportunity are all that a young player needs to unlock their full potential.
The Maple Leafs' organization may need to re-evaluate its approach to player development and talent assessment to avoid similar mistakes in the future. Holding onto young, affordable players with potential can be crucial for long-term success, and letting them slip away can have significant consequences. As Steeves and Minten continue to excel in Boston, the Leafs will be forced to watch and wonder what could have been.
