BRAZEAU FOR LAUKO, KHUSNUTDINOV

The Minnesota Wild acquired winger Justin Brazeau from the Boston Bruins for winger Jakub Lauko, center Marat Khusnutdinov and a sixth-round draft pick in 2026.

What does it give the Minnesota Wild
Brazeau will provide Minnesota with upgraded depth on the wing, where superstar Kirill Kaprizov continues to be absent from the lineup due to injury. The 27-year-old Brazeau is playing his first full NHL season and registered 10 goals and 10 assists in 57 games with Boston. The 6'6" winger might be a late bloomer (he just turned 27), and his size will be an asset as the Wild try to make a playoff run this season. That being said, did GM Bill Guerin give up too much in this deal?

What does it give the Boston Bruins
With Boston's playoff chances uncertain, this deal adds a few pieces for the future. Lauko, a former Bruin, has struggled with injuries this season but is only 24 and can be a useful role player. As for Khusnutdinov, after coming over from the KHL late last season, he managed only seven points in 57 games with the Wild. Boston may give him a better opportunity. The Bruins did alright on this return (which included a draft pick), considering Brazeau does not have much NHL experience.

Fantasy impact
This trade will not have much of an impact in many fantasy formats. Brazeau's value will continue to be limited to deeper leagues, and he is likely to remain in a bottom-six forward role with the Wild. Lauko and Khusnutdinov are not factors in nearly all fantasy formats, but Khusnutdinov could be worth keeping an eye on if the Bruins try him in a more offensive role.