Trust me, I know. I've been editing for a few years and it's been the same every year. The minutes do not transfer out of play now mode into season or association mode. In the past, they've transferred into playoff mode but I haven't tried this season.
Soon, probably when REDitor is able to edit draft classes, I'm going to purchase a license. Then, I'll be able to start an association file and assign minutes with REDitor, then post the file online so no one would have to assign minutes during the first year of association. After the first year, all bets are off because there are so many transactions.