Rangers acquire overage forward Dylan Edwards from Otters in exchange for former first-rounder Headrick

The Kitchener Rangers have acquired overage forward Dylan Edwards from the Erie Otters in exchange for Evan Headrick and a fourth-round pick in the 2029 OHL Priority Selection.

Edwards, a Toronto native, is in his fifth OHL season after originally being selected in the eighth round of the 2021 OHL Priority Selection by the Otters. The 20-year-old has appeared in 187 career OHL games, recording 60 goals and 76 assists for 136 points.

This season, Edwards has produced at better than a point-per-game pace, tallying 39 points (16G–23A) in 32 games, leading the Otters in scoring at the time of the trade. A key contributor during Erie’s recent playoff runs, Edwards also returned from injury during the second half of the 2023-24 season to post 34 points (22G–12A) in 38 games.

“We are excited to add Dylan to our group,” said Rangers General Manager Mike McKenzie. “He is a dynamic player and a strong offensive driver. He has shown he elevates his game in the playoffs, and that’s a big reason we were excited to make this move.”

Edwards will wear number 16 with the Rangers.

Heading to Erie is Evan Headrick, a 2008-born forward selected 15th overall by Kitchener in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection. The 17-year-old Garden River, Ont., native appeared in 51 career games with the Rangers, recording three goals and four assists, including three assists in 32 games this season.

Headrick missed much of last season due to injury but is known for his competitiveness and willingness to play in traffic despite his size. He is also the brother of former Otters defenceman Owen Headrick, a member of Erie’s 2017 OHL Championship team.

“We’re incredibly excited to welcome Evan to our organization,” said Otters General Manager Dave Brown. “He comes from a family with deep roots here, and we believed in him throughout his draft year. He brings skill, creativity, and a high ceiling, and we’re thrilled to have him join our group as we continue to build.”

Erie also receives Kitchener’s fourth-round pick in 2029 as part of the return.

“These are never easy decisions, especially when you’re moving a player who represents so much to your organization,” Brown added. “Dylan’s growth and impact here have been special, and while it’s emotional, this move opens a new chapter for him and allows us to focus on our long-term plan.”

The trade sees Kitchener add a proven overage scorer for the stretch run, while Erie gains a young forward with upside, along with future draft capital.