While on the clock with pick 110 of the 2024 NHL Draft, the Minnesota Wild traded their 4th round pick along with forward Vinni Lettieri to the Boston Bruins for 4th round pick 122 and forward Jakub Lauko. In another seemingly one for one trade, Minnesota GM Bill Guerin seems to be looking for players who might need a change of scenery. Last week, he traded Iowa Wild forward Adam Beckman in a similar trade.
Lauko is a physical, gritty player with good skating skills and could be a replacement of sorts for former Wild player Brandon Duhaime. Originally from Czechia, Lauko was drafted in the 3rd round of the 2018 NHL Draft by the Bruins at #77 overall. Last season, he played 60 games with the Bruins and had 10 total points (2 goals and 8 assists) along with 32 penalty minutes.
Lettieri signed a two-year contract with the Minnesota Wild last off-season. He struggled with an injury during the 2023-24 season, but played 46 games and put up 9 total points (5 goals and 4 assists). Slightly undersized, Lettieri is a good depth player who can move up the lineup if needed to fill in. He can put up points and isn’t afraid of being physical when needed.
Lauko is coming to the Wild on the last year of a 2 year contract. His cap hit is $787,500 and after this season, he will be a restricted free agent.
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