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Maple Leafs Prospect's Stock Rises Following Fraser Minten's Departure

Originally posted on Hockey Patrol | Last updated Mar 11, 2025 7:54 PM ET

Thanks to the Toronto Maple Leafs trading away Fraser Minten, prospect Jacob Quillan now has a chance to elevate his career and has a chance to make the team.

Toronto Maple Leafs acquired defenseman Brandon Carlo from the divisional foe Boston Bruins, and in return sent Fraser Minten, a 2026 first round draft pick (Top 5 protected), and a 2025 fourth round draft pick (from Philadelphia).

Thanks to Minten's departure from the organization, it's going to open the door for another intriguing prospect to have a chance to make next year's team.

Signed as an undrafted free agent by the Maple Leafs to a 2-year entry level contract in 2024, Quillan will now have the chance to make a case that he should have a spot on Toronto's roster for next year.

Don't be surprised to see Quillan on the bubble for next year's Leafs roster as he's been a standout for the Toronto Marlies this season:

It seems like Quillan is probably the main prospect Toronto has on the cusp of playing a role for them - good chunk of games next year - & he'll benefit from Minten being dealt
He started scoring in mid-December more & has 22 PTS in 29 GP as a natural 2-way C in his first AHL season.

Jacob Quillan Has Potential To Be Next College Star

Quillan has 26 points (12G, 14A) and 26 PIM in 50 games played with the Marlies this year, which also included a call-up to the Leafs for a single game.

Before his time with the Maple Leafs organization, Quillan played for Quinnipiac University of the ECAC; his best year was 2023-24 when he had 46 points (17G, 29A) in 39 games played.

He was also instrumental in scoring the game winner for Quinnipiac to win their first ever NCAA Championship after defeating fellow Maple Leaf Matthew Knies' former alma mater; Minnesota.

He's got all the intangibles, he's smart, he plays hard. With Fraser Minten's projected role as a 3C for the Maple Leafs in the next couple of years, Quillan can take his spot and be Toronto's next college standout.

This article first appeared on Hockey Patrol and was syndicated with permission.

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