LAUKO LANDS IN MINNESOTA
The Minnesota Wild acquired winger Jakub Lauko and a fourth-round draft pick in 2024 (No. 122 overall) from the Boston Bruins for forward Vinni Lettieri and a fourth-round draft pick in 2024 (No. 110 overall).
What does it give the Minnesota Wild
Lauko is the type of player the Wild look for as bottom-six forwards. His versatility and physicality on the forecheck should earn him a spot in the Minnesota lineup to start next season. He had 10 points and 176 hits in 2023-24. At only 24 years old, his offensive game has room to improve. The trade down in the draft order is likely the result of Lauko being the better asset in this transaction.
What does it give the Boston Bruins
The Bruins are familiar with Lettieri, as he was with the organization before signing with the Wild. Lettieri will likely be waived and sent to the minors after training camp, but he should help the Bruins in terms of depth–while they give younger players a opportunity to seize a role in the NHL. Moving up a few spots in the draft was the prime motivation being this trade from a Boston perspective.
Fantasy impact
Both Lauko and Lettieri are bottom-six forwards when they are in the lineup. Neither is a must-have option in fantasy hockey.
