Sting acquire Ben Pickell from the Frontenacs

The Kingston Frontenacs and Sarnia Sting have struck a deal to send overage forward Ben Pickell to Sarnia in exchange for Sarnia’s 2029 10th-round selection.

Pickell, who appeared in 64 games for the Frontenacs last season, registered 24 points (13-11–24) in the 2024-25 season. Through 11 playoff games, he added 6 points (4-2–6). Originally drafted by the Barrie Colts in the 3rd round of the 2021 OHL Priority Selection, Pickell appeared in 22 games for the Colts before splitting parts of three seasons with the Pickering Panthers and the Trenton Golden Hawks of the OJHL.

“Decisions like this are one of the most difficult parts of this job.” said General Manager Kory Cooper. “Ben is a good teammate, a fan favourite, and a great person. Unfortunately, we currently have too many OA players, so a move had to be made.” Fronteancs General Manager, Kory Cooper

“We needed to put an emphasis on our defensive group when it came to our OA players this season,” continued Cooper. “It was important to me to do what I could to allow Ben to continue playing in the OHL for his OA season, and this move allows that to happen. We wish Ben nothing but the best of luck moving forward with his hockey career,” added Cooper.