Former Bruins Forward Struggling to Find Footing With New Team

Former Bruins Forward Struggling to Find Footing With New Team

March 6th, the Boston Bruins made a big move by trading pending UFA forward Justin Brazeau to the Minnesota Wild. In return they got Marat Khusnutdinov, Jakub Lauko and a 2026 6th rounder. So far the Bruins are getting great return on this trade as both Khusnutdinov and Lauko are off to hot starts with their new team. Brazeau’s transition to the Wild has been lukewarm so far.

Let’s dig in and see how this trade is working out for both teams and what it means for the players involved.

The Trade Breakdown

Boston Bruins’ Perspective

The Bruins clearly went for immediate depth and future potential in this deal. They got Marat Khusnutdinov and Jakub Lauko, two young and energetic forwards who are already contributing at the NHL level.

  • Khusnutdinov has made an impact already scoring 2 goals in 5 games since joining the Bruins. His speed and playmaking is on full display and is giving Boston’s 3rd and 4th line a much needed boost.
  • Lauko has 2 assists in 5 games showing his offensive instincts and versatility. Both players bring energy and skill to the table and fit into the Bruins system.

And the 2026 6th rounder adds long term value to the trade giving Boston more flexibility in future drafts.

Minnesota Wild’s Perspective

The Wild were looking to add size and secondary scoring by getting Justin Brazeau, a 6’6” winger who is known for his physical presence and offensive potential. But Brazeau’s start with the Wild has been underwhelming.

In 6 games with the Wild he has no points and is -1 . He’s also had 2 shots on goal during that span. This slow start is concerning especially since Brazeau was already struggling with the Bruins before the trade.Before the trade Brazeau had a 12 game pointless streak with the Bruins so it was unclear if he could get his scoring going again.

In 63 games this season he has 10 goals, 20 points, 136 hits so he can contribute when he’s on. If he gets out of his slump he can still be a 3rd/4th line forward for the Wild.

Why the Trade Looks Good for Boston So Far

So far, so good for the Bruins. Both Khusnutdinov and Lauko are playing, while Brazeau has done nothing with the Wild. The Bruins addressed a need for depth scoring and energy, which will be huge this spring.

For the Wild,hope Brazeau gets his game back. He’s a big body and physical but needs to produce if he wants to be in the lineup.

FAQs About the Bruins-Wild Trade

Who did the Boston Bruins trade to the Minnesota Wild?

The Bruins traded Justin Brazeau to the Wild for Marat Khusnutdinov, Jakub Lauko and a 2026 6th round draft pick.

How are Khusnutdinov and Lauko doing with the Bruins?

Both are playing well. Khusnutdinov has 2 goals in 5 games, Lauko 2 assists in 5 games.

Why was Justin Brazeau traded?

Brazeau, a UFA, was pointless in his last 12 games. The trade allowed the Bruins to get younger and more versatile in Khusnutdinov and Lauko.

How is Justin Brazeau doing with the Wild?

Brazeau has no points in 6 games and 2 shots on goal. He’s got some work to do to get back to his earlier season form.

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2 responses to “Former Bruins Forward Struggling to Find Footing With New Team”

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