Wanner re-signed a one-year contract with the Providence Bruins (AHL) for the 2026-27 season.

Since being traded to the Boston Bruins, Max Wanner has spent all his time in the American Hockey League with the Providence Bruins. So far, it has been tough for him to carve out a regular spot. He has been in and out of the lineup, and just as the Bruins’ injuries opened a potential window for him to show what he can do, he ended up getting hurt himself. This season, he has appeared in only seven games and is still looking for his first point.

With the depth Boston has on defense, Wanner is not particularly close to an NHL call-up. Even last season, he struggled to secure a consistent spot in Providence’s lineup and did not dress during the playoffs. When he has played this year, it’s been on the third pairing.

Wanner is a physical, hard-nosed, shutdown defenseman who fits the classic “Big Bad Bruins” mould. He’s tough to play against, battles hard in front of his own net, and does a strong job clearing shooting lanes for his goaltender. But offensively, he often looks a step behind; he does not always read developing plays well or get himself into positions to contribute. His offensive upside is limited, and that caps his overall impact.

From a fantasy perspective, Wanner is someone you can safely leave on the waiver wire. It’s not that he is a poor player; he plays his role reliably, but with slim odds of earning NHL minutes and little offensive production to lean on, there are far better fantasy options available.