WHL Trade Deadline 2018: Live Blog
The Western Hockey League Trade Deadline arrives Wednesday, January 10 at 3 p.m. MT, and there is no shortage of intrigue as teams look to load up in search of a run at the Ed Chynoweth Cup or, on the contrary, hope to restock the cupboards in order to speed up a rebuild.
Be sure to visit WHL.ca’s Trade Deadline 2018: Live Blog for all the news on the latest trade activity from around the league as we keep you wired with the latest breaking deals over the week leading up to and including January 10.
Wednesday, January 10
3:29 p.m. MT – Regina Pats acquire defenceman Brady Pouteau (1998) from the Lethbridge Hurricanes in exchange for a seventh-round pick (2018). – COMPLETE STORY
“Brady is a great addition to our defence corps,” said John Paddock, general manager and head coach of the Pats, in a team release. “He was an integral part of the Hurricanes making the Eastern Conference Championship Series last year and we look forward to having him back in Regina.”
The 6-foot-3, 204-pound Pouteau was originally a fourth-round selection (79th) of the Pats at the 2013 WHL Bantam Draft. In 122 career WHL games split between the Pats and Hurricanes, the product of Oak Bluff, Man., has 30 points (4G-26A) to his credit.
To this point in 2017-18, Pouteau has collected 11 points (1G-10A).
3:16 p.m. MT – Victoria Royals acquire forward Tanner Kaspick (1998) and forward Cameron MacDonald (2002) from the Brandon Wheat Kings in exchange for forward Ty Thorpe (2002), defenceman Jonathon Lambos (2001) and two first-round picks (2019 and 2021). – COMPLETE STORY
Faced with a tough decision to buy or sell in the tough East Division, the Brandon Wheat Kings made their move Wednesday at the conclusion of the Western Hockey League’s Trade Deadline.
The Wheat Kings dealt 19-year-old forward and St. Louis Blues prospect Tanner Kaspick to the Victoria Royals in a six-player deal. Also headed to the Royals is 2002-born unsigned forward prospect Cameron MacDonald.
In return, the Wheat Kings have received a first-round pick in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft, a first-round pick in the 2021 WHL Bantam Draft and unsigned prospects defenceman Jonathon Lambos (2001) and forward Ty Thorpe (2002).
Kaspick is the big piece to this deal, helping aid a forward core on the Royals that already includes NHL drafted talent including: captain Matthew Phillips (Calgary Flames), Tyler Soy (Anaheim Ducks), Lane Zablocki (Detroit Red Wings) and Noah Gregor (San Jose Sharks).
“There are very few opportunities to acquire a player with Tanner’s skill, character and experience,” Royals’ president and general manager Cameron Hope said. “He will be a great addition to our forward group, and we look forward to welcoming him to Victoria.”
“He will be a great addition to our forward group, and we look forward to welcoming him to Victoria.” – @victoriaroyals GM Cameron Hopehttps://t.co/Ruq8lc9PWj
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 10, 2018
3:15 p.m. MT – Moose Jaw Warriors acquire defenceman Kale Clague (1998) from the Brandon Wheat Kings in exchange for forward Luka Burzan (2000), defenceman Chase Hartje (1999), two first-round picks (2019 & 2021) and a second-round pick (2018). – COMPLETE STORY
Moose Jaw Warriors general manager Alan Millar sat patiently, biding his time, as one blockbuster deal after another was announced in the days leading up to the 2018 WHL Trade Deadline.
That didn’t mean he wasn’t cooking up some dramatics of his own.
As the clock ticked past 3 p.m. MT on Wednesday, January 10, Millar’s Warriors announced the acquisition of Canadian World Junior gold-medal winning defenceman Kale Clague from the Brandon Wheat Kings at 3:15 p.m. MT, stunning fans across the WHL.
Originally selected by the Wheat Kings in the first round (sixth) of the 2013 WHL Bantam Draft, Clague has enjoyed a thoroughly productive and successful WHL career. In 169 career WHL regular season contests, he has 143 points (25G-118A). On three occasions, he has suited up for Team WHL at the annual CIBC Canada Russia Series (2015, 2016, 2017). He was named to the Sherwin-Williams CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game in 2015 before being selected by the Los Angeles Kings in the second round (51st) of the 2016 NHL Draft. He has been named to a WHL Eastern Conference All-Star team (2016-17) and won the Ed Chynoweth Cup as a member of the 2016 WHL Champion Brandon Wheat Kings.
That doesn’t even bring to light the silver medal (2017) and gold medal (2018) he has collected while representing Team Canada at the IIHF World Junior Championship or the gold medal he earned with Team Canada at the 2015 U18 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Cup.
2018 WJC gold, 2017 WHL All-Star, 2016 WHL Champion – @LAKings prospect @KaleClague joins @MJWARRIORS.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/F0grf2S0K4https://t.co/9bgjY7b3Xr
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 10, 2018
3:04 p.m. MT – Everett Silvertips acquire forward Spencer Gerth (1998) from Victoria Royals in exchange for a seventh-round pick (2019). – COMPLETE STORY
“Toward the end of the trade deadline, we’ve been actively exploring ways to supplement our club when possible,” said Garry Davidson, general manager of the Silvertips, in a team release. “With Spencer, we warmly welcome back an individual we’re familiar with as an exemplary teammate, citizen, and player who isn’t afraid to play a hard-nosed style.”
Gerth – a 6-foot-3, 201-pound product of Langley, B.C. – began his WHL career with the Silvertips, dressing in a single post-season contest during the 2014-15 WHL Playoffs. He spent the 2015-16 campaign full-time with the ‘Tips before being moved to the Royals midway through the 2016-17 campaign.
In 43 games this season, Gerth has collected six points (3G-3A) in 43 contests. Through 156 career WHL regular season games, he has 10 points (5G-5A) to his credit.
"@sgerth17 [is] an exemplary teammate, citizen & player who isn't afraid to play a hard-nosed style." – @WHLsilvertips GM Garry Davidson
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/fDStHkwBhfhttps://t.co/muhfRJOBWH
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 11, 2018
3:04 p.m. MT – Everett Silvertips acquire forward Bronson Sharp (1999) from Portland Winterhawks in exchange for a fifth-round pick (2020). – COMPLETE STORY
“Toward the end of the trade deadline we’ve been actively exploring ways to supplement our club when possible,” said Silvertips general manager Garry Davidson. “Bronson brings an intense style that is high energy in all areas of the ice and seems to be a great fit for how we desire to play.
“Overall we’re satisfied with the additions we’ve made to our roster.”
Sharp made his debut with the Winterhawks in February 2016. Since then he’s played in 84 WHL games, recording five points (2G-3A) along the way. He’s had one game-winning goal in his WHL career and added 44 penalty minutes.
"@bronsonsharp brings an intense style that is high energy in all areas." – @WHLsilvertips GM Garry Davidson
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/9hoJ9vSDRDhttps://t.co/hGo3hENYOA
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 11, 2018
2:55 p.m. MT – Portland Winterhawks acquire defenceman Dennis Cholowski (1998) and goaltender Ty Taylor (1999) from Prince George Cougars in exchange for forward Ilijah Colina (2000), forward Connor Bowie (2001), second-round picks in 2018 and 2019, a first-round pick in 2020, a third-round pick in 2020 and a conditional sixth-round pick (2019). – COMPLETE STORY
This move aids the Winterhawks in the short-term while paying dividends for the Cougars in coming years.
Cholowski, a 6-foot-1, 200-pound product of Langley, B.C. was selected by the Detroit Red Wings in the first round, 20th overall, of the 2016 NHL Draft. In 37 games with the Cougars this season, Cholowski has 39 points (13G-26A), including four power-play goals, one short-handed goal and one game-winning goal.
He has a pair of multi-goal games this season with the Cougars and has 11 multi-point efforts. Cholowski also represented the WHL at the first two stops of the CIBC Canada Russia Series. Cholowski sits sixth in WHL scoring for defencemen, but will become the highest-scoring blueliner on the Winterhawks when he joins the defensive core that already features the likes of Henri Jokiharju (Chicago Blackhawks) and Keoni Texeira.
Cholowski was originally selected by the Cougars in the 10th round, 200th overall, of the 2013 WHL Bantam Draft. He left St. Cloud State (NCAA) last summer after signing a three-year entry-level contract with the Red Wings.
“It’s always been our philosophy to have transitional defensemen on our backend and he fits in perfectly with our style of play.” – @pdxwinterhawks GM Mike Johnston. https://t.co/HMJ1X5bAZr
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 10, 2018
Newest @PGCougars forward Ilijah Colina was drafted by the Winterhawks and had 27 points (4G-23A) in 83 games. https://t.co/PI3wbcj0L3
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 10, 2018
2:47 p.m. MT – Lethbridge Hurricanes acquire rights to forward Michael Horon (2001) from Everett Silvertips in exchange for a sixth-round pick (2019).
2:45 p.m. MT – Regina Pats acquire defenceman Aaron Hyman (1998) from the Seattle Thunderbirds in exchange for defenceman Owen Williams (2000) and a second-round pick (2019). – COMPLETE STORY
Hyman, a 6-foot-5, 221-pound product of Calgary, Alta. will join a Pats club that is stocking up for a run at this year’s Mastercard Memorial Cup. Hyman will also likely get to add his name to a very exclusive list of players to play for the title on different teams in back-to-back years.
“Aaron brings a ton of size and playoff experience to our back end,” said Pats Head Coach and GM John Paddock. “He won a league championship and played in the Memorial Cup last season and will fit in great with our group.”
Drafted by the Calgary Hitmen in the third round, 49th overall, of the 2013 WHL Bantam Draft. In 136 career WHL games, Hyman has 26 points (4G-22A), including 59 penalty minutes and one power-play goal.
In addition to the pick headed the other way is Williams, a 6-foot-1, 180-pound Delta, B.C. product. Williams was draft by the Pats in the ninth round, 190th overall, of the 2015 WHL Bantam Draft. In 29 games with the Pats, Williams had one assist and six penalty minutes.
TRADE: The @WHLPats acquire 19-year-old defenceman @Aaron_Hyman23 from the @SeattleTbirds in exchange for Owen Williams and a draft pick.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/zWl8yTa8HS pic.twitter.com/Lyhhx6t4YA
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 10, 2018
2:33 p.m. MT – Lethbridge Hurricanes acquire forward Keltie Jeri-Leon (2000) from Kamloops Blazers in exchange for a seventh-round pick (2019)
2:18 p.m. MT – Seattle Thunderbirds acquire forward Jaxan Kaluski (1999) from Moose Jaw Warriors in exchange for a sixth-round pick (2019). – COMPLETE STORY
The Moose Jaw Warriors dealt 18-year-old forward Jaxan Kaluski to the Seattle Thunderbirds of the U.S. Division. A 6-foot-0, 182-pound product of Lloydminster, Alta., Kaluski made his debut with the Warriors in September 2016. Since then, he’s played in 38 games with the WHL club, totalling four points (2G-2A). He’s also added 19 penalty minutes.
“Kaluski is an honest, hardworking energy guy that’s going to give us some depth at forward,” said T-Birds director of player personnel Cal Filson.
"@jaxan_kaluski_8 is an honest, hard-working energy guy." – @SeattleTbirds Director, Player Personnel Cal Filson
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/K6EZmKRKR4https://t.co/zfwBDr7qNY
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 11, 2018
1:45 p.m. MT – Tri-City Americans acquire defenceman Austin King-Cunningham (2000) from Vancouver Giants in exchange for a conditional fifth-round pick (2019). – COMPLETE STORY
King-Cunningham, a 6-foot-1, 195-pound product of Pilot Butte, Sask., made his WHL debut with the Giants in February 2017. In eight games with the Giants, King-Cunningham had one assist and seven penalty minutes.
TRADE: @WHLGiants deal King-Cunningham to @TCAmericans for conditional pick.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/KjvdFfGTEJ pic.twitter.com/Ki3HSIKj71
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 10, 2018
1:30 p.m. MT – Saskatoon Blades acquire forward Eric Florchuk (2000) from the Victoria Royals in exchange for first-round picks in 2019 and 2021, and a fourth-round pick in 2018. – COMPLETE STORY
“Players of Eric’s quality who are in their draft year do not come available very often,” said Colin Priestner, general manager of the Blades, in a team release. “We are extremely excited to add him to our emerging group and he will be a top-end talent for us to build around over the next three years.
“He has played extensively with Kirby [Dach] and Chase [Wouters] and we feel this is a major piece to our goal of building a championship team.”
Florchuk – a 6-foot-1, 173-pound product of Fort Saskatchewan, Alta. – played minor hockey alongside Dach – the Blades second overall selection from the 2016 WHL Bantam Draft. He also skated with Blades forward Wouters at the 2016 World U17 Hockey Challenge, where they won silver as members of Canada Black.
Named to the rosters for the upcoming Sherwin-Williams CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game on January 25, Florchuk has been identified by NHL Central Scouting as a ‘player to watch’ ahead of the 2018 NHL Draft.
Enjoying a career season, Florchuk has 28 points (7G-21A) to his credit through 43 games this season.
"“He has played extensively with Kirby [Dach] and Chase [Wouters] and we feel this is a major piece to our goal of building a championship team.” – @BladesHockey GM Colin Priestner.https://t.co/dSp3mFLdfz
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 10, 2018
1:30 p.m. MT – Vancouver Giants acquire 1998-born forward Davis Koch from Edmonton Oil Kings in exchange for forward Brendan Semchuk (1999), goaltender Todd Scott (2000) and a third-round pick (2018) – COMPLETE STORY
The Edmonton Oil Kings went in search of a goaltender Wednesday, finding one in British Columbia’s Lower Mainland.
In a deal with the Vancouver Giants, the Oil Kings acquired forward 17-year-old forward Brendan Semchuk, 17-year-old goaltender Todd Scott and a third-round draft pick in the 2018 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft.
In return, the Giants gained some valuable help for the playoff drive, acquiring winger 19-year-old forward Davis Koch from Alberta’s capital and a conditional third-round draft pick in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft.
“Davis Koch is a dynamic player, a game-changer, and a proven scorer in the WHL” – @WHLGiants GM Glen Hanlon.https://t.co/1gwYkfIVnA
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 10, 2018
"We were able to facilitate a trade with Vancouver and move forward on a deal that brought two players" – @EdmOilKings GM Randy Hanschhttps://t.co/MhWwsxvN9s
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 10, 2018
1:10 p.m. MT – Victoria Royals acquire forward Lane Zablocki (1998) from Lethbridge Hurricanes in exchange for a second-round pick (2018), a conditional third-round pick (2019) and a sixth-round pick (2018). – COMPLETE STORY
The Victoria Royals have added another piece of offensive weaponry to their arsenal, acquiring 19-year-old forward Lane Zablocki from the Lethbridge Hurricanes in exchange for a second-round pick in 2018, a conditional third-round pick in 2019 and a sixth-round pick in 2018.
Zablocki – a 6-foot, 190-pound product of Wetaskawin, Alta. – is a prospect of the Detroit Red Wings, having been selected in the third round (79th) of the 2017 NHL Draft.
With 116 points in 157 career WHL games, @DetroitRedWings prospect @LZablocki12 adds offense for @victoriaroyals.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/aVZQwRBqoThttps://t.co/GR5Q47pUmV
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 10, 2018
10:00 a.m. MT – The Everett Silvertips acquire defenceman Jameson Murray from the Calgary Hitmen in exchange for a conditional sixth-round selection in the 2019 or 2020 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
TRADE: @WHLsilvertips add to blueline with acquisition of @JamesonMurray from @WHLHitmen.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/jLt6gr6NTz pic.twitter.com/5PI1S5ekoJ
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 10, 2018
9:00 a.m. MT – In a three-way trade, the 2018 Mastercard Memorial Cup host Regina Pats acquire goaltender Ryan Kubic (1998) and Edmonton Oilers prospect Cameron Hebig (1997) from the Saskatoon Blades for goaltender Tyler Brown (1997), first-and-second-round draft picks in the 2020 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft, a third-round selection in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft and a third round pick in the 2021 WHL Bantam Draft while the Medicine Hat Tigers receive forward Bryan Lockner (2000), a first-round draft pick in the 2020 WHL Bantam Draft from the Blades and a second-round draft pick in the 2021 WHL Bantam Draft from the Blades. – COMPLETE STORY
Go big or go home, that’s what they say.
And that’s exactly what the Saskatoon Blades and Regina Pats did to kick start Wednesday morning of the 2018 WHL Trade Deadline, striking a three-way deal involving the Medicine Hat Tigers.
The Blades bring in the widest variety of assets, landing 1998-born forward Max Gerlach from the Tigers, overage goaltender Tyler Brown from the Pats and then four draft picks all courtesy of the Pats – first- and second-round picks in 2020, a third-round pick in 2019 and a third-round pick in 2021.
Headed to the Queen City to join the Pats for their Mastercard Memorial Cup run is overage forward Cameron Hebig and 1998-born goaltender Ryan Kubic, both courtesy the Blades.
Rounding out this relatively complex transaction, the Tigers receive 2000-born forward Bryan Lockner from the Regina Pats and two draft picks from the Blades – a first-round pick in 2020 and a second-round pick in 2021.
“Cameron is one of the best overage players in the league this year,” said John Paddock, general manager and head coach of the Pats, in a team release. “We are really excited to add his scoring and playmaking ability to our team.”
TRADE: @BladesHockey, @WHLPats & @tigershockey come together for three-way swap to open deadline day.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/IOywtIu3A7 pic.twitter.com/rFcvsxpD4P
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 10, 2018
"We are really excited to add his scoring & playmaking ability." – @WHLPats GM/HC Paddock on @EdmontonOilers prospect Hebig
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/IOywtILEYHhttps://t.co/o2Di6vxVBU
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 10, 2018
Tuesday, January 9
1:30 p.m. MT – The Prince George Cougars acquire 18-year-old defenceman Cameron MacPhee from the Medicine Hat Tigers in exchange for a seventh-round selection in the 2018 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft.
12:31 p.m. MT – The Calgary Hitmen have claimed 17-year-old Russian import defenceman Egor Zamula off waivers from the Regina Pats.
12:14 p.m. MT – The Medicine Hat Tigers acquire 18-year-old forward Elijah Brown from the Seattle Thunderbirds in exchange for second-round pick in the 2018 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft and a conditional third-round pick in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft.
TRADE: The @tigershockey got in on the trade action Tuesday, acquiring Elijah Brown from the @SeattleTbirds.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/fRY61HQtFi pic.twitter.com/XMtBg0LbSH
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 9, 2018
10:30 a.m. MT – The Swift Current Broncos acquire 19-year-old forward Andrew Fyten from the Calgary Hitmen in exchange for the rights to 17-year-old defenceman Ethan Martini and a conditional third-round pick in the 2020 WHL Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
If life in the East Division wasn’t already tough enough, it just got a little bit tougher.
The Swift Current Broncos have acquired 19-year-old forward Andrew Fyten from the Calgary Hitmen in exchange for the rights to 17-year-old defenceman Ethan Martini and a conditional third-round pick in the 2020 WHL Bantam Draft.
Fyten – a 6-foot-1, 190-pound product of Sundre, Alta. – is in his third WHL campaign after being selected by the Everett Silvertips in the fifth round (108th) of the 2013 WHL Bantam Draft. Acquired by the Hitmen from the Silvertips in May 2015, Fyten has skated in 155 career WHL regular season contests, collecting 35 points (14G-21A) and 210 penalty minutes along the way. He is in midst of a career season with 16 points (6G-10A) in 40 games with the Hitmen.
In 155 career WHL regular season games, @fyten26 has amassed 35 points (14G-21A) & 210 PIMs.https://t.co/gAZiwH7u9f
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 9, 2018
10:00 a.m. MT – The Swift Current Broncos acquire Edmonton Oilers goaltending prospect Stuart Skinner (1998) and captain Giorgio Estephan (1997) from the Lethbridge Hurricanes in exchange for goaltender Logan Flodell (1997), forward Logan Barlage (2001), forward Owen Blocker (2000) and defenceman Matthew Stanley (1998) as well as a first and third-round draft picks in the 2020 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft and a condition-second-round draft pick in the 2021 WHL Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
Of all the deals trading the present for the future, the Swift Current Broncos and Lethbridge Hurricanes may have just made the trade of the 2017-18 Western Hockey League season, significantly altering the paths of both clubs.
The Broncos put themselves all-in in the Eastern Conference Monday, acquiring Edmonton Oilers goaltending prospect Stuart Skinner (1998) and captain Giorgio Estephan (1997) from the Central Division Hurricanes. Also headed to Swift Current is forward Tanner Nagel (1998).
In return, the Hurricanes have acquired seven pieces to help their team for the remainder of the year and beyond, starting with goaltender Logan Flodell (1997), rookie forward Logan Barlage (2001), forward Owen Blocker (2000) and defenceman Matthew Stanley (1998). The Hurricanes have also received a first-round draft pick in the 2020 WHL Bantam Draft, a third-round pick in the same draft and a conditional second-round draft pick in the 2021 WHL Bantam Draft.
Skinner was selected by the Oilers in the third round, 74th overall, of the 2017 NHL Draft. In 31 games with the Hurricanes this season, Skinner has a 14-15-2-0 record, maintaining a 3.38 goals against average, .897 SV% and four shutouts. Skinner’s WHL career began when the Hurricanes selected him in the first round, 17th overall, of the 2013 WHL Bantam Draft. In 182 games with the club, Skinner has compiled a 88-66-8-5 record, 3.30 goals against average and .907 SV%. He also has 10 shutouts to his name.
The 1997-born Estephan is the other big piece to this deal for the Broncos. A 6-foot-0, 195-pound forward from Edmonton, Alta., he has recorded 58 points (18G-40A) in 39 games with the Hurricanes while serving as their captain. The overage center has spent his entire WHL career in southern Alberta, recording 297 points (119G-178A) in 297 games with the Hurricanes. He has 39 career power-play goals, five short-handed goals and 13 game-winning goals.
“This was obviously a difficult trade to make, as you can imagine, but one we felt we had to do,” Hurricanes general manager Peter Anholt said. “To be able to get Barlage in the trade was the key to this move. He’s a big, young guy who has a lot of potential and we think he will be a real good player who will be an important piece to our now and future. And to get Flodell, Blocker and Stanley to help us now is important; plus the draft picks.”
In 182 WHL games, @SCBroncos goaltender Skinner has a 88-66-8-5 record, 3.30 GAA, .907 SV% and 10 shutouts. https://t.co/bmyiMnzQSo
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 9, 2018
Monday, January 8
7:09 p.m. MT – The Kelowna Rockets acquire forward Ryan Bowen (1998) from the Lethbridge Hurricanes in exchange for an eight-round draft pick in the 2019 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
TRADE: The @Kelowna_Rockets acquire Ryan Bowen from the @WHLHurricanes in exchange for a draft pick.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/OAj2IPxEQt pic.twitter.com/qX3wu4rPBn
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 9, 2018
5:15 p.m. MT – The Spokane Chiefs acquire goaltender Bailey Brkin (1999) from the Kootenay ICE in exchange for an eight-round draft pick in the 2019 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
“We’re excited to add Bailey to our organization. He has WHL experience and potential to be a valuable goalie in our league.” – @spokanechiefs GM Scott Carter https://t.co/mjoJ3QHKOi
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 9, 2018
4:00 p.m. MT – The Calgary Hitmen acquire goaltender Nicholas Sanders (1998) from the Prince Albert Raiders in exchange for a sixth-round pick in 2019 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
TRADE: @WHLHitmen acquire goaltender Nicholas Sanders from @PARaidersHockey.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/bKHkqAFGJi pic.twitter.com/YMnN0uiIX6
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 9, 2018
3:15 p.m. MT – The Vancouver Giants acquire defenceman Brennan Riddle (1997) from the Lethbridge Hurricanes for forward Brad Morrison (1997) – COMPLETE STORY
The Vancouver Giants and Lethbridge Hurricanes swapped overage players in a Monday afternoon one-for-one deal.
Heading to southern Alberta is forward Brad Morrison, a 6-foot-0, 171-pound product of Prince George, B.C. In 42 games with the Giants this season, Morrison had 35 points (11G-24A), including four power-play goals. Morrison has played in 302 career WHL games, recording 223 points (96G-127A), including 23 power-play goals and 15 short-handed goals.
Headed the other way in the deal is defenceman Brennan Riddle, a 6-foot-2, 197-pound product of Balgonie, Sask. Originally drafted by the Calgary Hitmen 17th overall in the 2012 WHL Bantam Draft, Riddle has six points (1G-5A) in 37 games this season. In 216 career WHL regular season games, between the Prince Albert Raiders and Hurricanes, Riddle has 34 points (5G-29A) and 167 penalty minutes.
“Morrison’s a real skilled player. He’s a proven skilled player at our level and should help us out up front.” — @WHLHurricanes GM Peter Anholthttps://t.co/vSFcp8KQLd
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 9, 2018
3:03 p.m. MT – The Portland Winterhawks acquire forward Lukus MacKenzie from the Red Deer Rebels in exchange for a sixth-round pick in the 2020 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
TRADE: The @pdxwinterhawks have acquired Lukus MacKenzie from the @Rebelshockey in exchange for a draft pick.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/YNZpXeZ283 pic.twitter.com/JvoyneweYA
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 8, 2018
1:45 p.m. MT – The 2018 Mastercard Memorial Cup host Regina Pats acquire Tampa Bay Lightning defensive prospect Libor Hajek (1998) from the Saskatoon Blades in exchange for defenceman Dawson Davidson (1998), prospect forward Tristen Robins (2001) and a first-round pick in 2019 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft to the Blades. – COMPLETE STORY
The 2018 Mastercard Memorial Cup host Regina Pats made a huge upgrade to their blueline Monday afternoon, acquiring Tampa Bay Lightning defensive prospect Libor Hajek (1998) from the Saskatoon Blades in a blockbuster deal that aids both sides.
Heading the Blades’ way is a haul of players that will significantly assist the Blades in years to come with defenceman Dawson Davidson (1998), prospect forward Tristen Robins (2001) and a first-round pick in 2019 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft to the Blades.
Drafted by the Lightning in the second round, 37th overall, of the 2016 NHL Draft. The 6-foot-2, 210-pound product of Smrcek, Czech Republic has played in 167 WHL regular season games, recording 77 points (15G-62A). He has one power-play and one game-winning goal.
“We are really excited to add Libor to our club,” Pats head coach and general manager John Paddock said. “He is among the best defencemen in our league and will be a big part of our team going forward.”
“He is among the best defencemen in our league and will be a big part of our team going forward.” – @WHLPats GM John Paddock https://t.co/eEJdqpeRVJ
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 8, 2018
12:00 p.m. MT – The Kootenay ICE acquire goaltender Matt Berlin (1998) from the Seattle Thunderbirds in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick in the 2018 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft – COMPLETE STORY
TRADE: The @WHLKootenayICE have acquired @mattberlin29 from the @SeattleTbirds in exchange for a draft pick.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/zdI5hJgeIf pic.twitter.com/og0RAIY2me
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 8, 2018
Sunday, January 7
8:45 p.m. MT – The Swift Current Broncos acquire Colorado Avalanche defensive prospect Josh Anderson (1998) from the Prince George Cougars in exchange for the Broncos’ first-round draft picks in the 2018 and 2019 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft – COMPLETE STORY
The Swift Current Broncos made a big play to bolster their blueline Sunday evening, acquiring Colorado Avalanche prospect Josh Anderson from the Prince George Cougars in exchange for their first-round selections in the 2018 and 2019 WHL Bantam Draft.
Anderson, a 6-foot-3, 220-pound left-shot product of Duncan, B.C. was drafted by the Avalanche in the third round, 71st overall, of the 2016 NHL Draft. In 25 games this season, Anderson has seven points (1G-6A).
Originally drafted by the Cougars third overall in the 2013 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft, Anderson has played 177 WHL regular season games with the Cougars, tallying 28 points (7G-21A), one power play goal and two game-winning goals. He also has 257 penalty minutes.
TRADE: The @SCBroncos have acquired @Avalanche prospect Josh Anderson from the @PGCougars for two first-round draft picks.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/OWk1UnIgyF pic.twitter.com/tH8d05zSqQ
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 8, 2018
7:30 p.m. MT – The Prince Albert Raiders acquire defenceman Konrad Belcourt (2000) from the Kelowna Rockets in exchange for a fifth-round and an eighth-round pick in the 2019 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft. The eighth-round selection originally belonged to the Rockets. – COMPLETE STORY
TRADE: The @PARaidersHockey have acquired defenceman Konrad Belcourt from the @Kelowna_Rockets in exchange for a pair of draft picks.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/sBR0TdR1L3 pic.twitter.com/RJn0AiCTJf
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 8, 2018
7:00 p.m. MT – The Vancouver Giants acquire defenceman Joel Sexsmith (2002) from the Swift Current Broncos in exchange for the Giants’ first-round draft pick in the 2019 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
Heading to the Giants is defenceman Joel Sexsmith (2002) while the Broncos will receive a first round selection in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft. Sexsmith, a 6-foot-1, 165-pound product of Edmonton, Alta. was drafted by the Broncos in the first round, ninth overall, of the 2017 WHL Bantam Draft.
“Joel Sexsmith is a top-end, highly skilled two-way defenceman that we followed very closely during his draft year,” Giants general manager Glen Hanlon said. “We are very proud of our 2017 draft and to add another player like Joel to our organization from that 2002-born group sets us up very nicely for the future.”
During his final Bantam season he recorded 16 points (4G, 12A) in 30 games with the Rink Hockey Academy (CSSBHL). He has played in eight games for the Northern Alberta X-Treme Prep squad of the Canadian Sport School Hockey League (CSSHL), amassing four points (1G-3A) to go along with 12 penalty minutes. He participated in the WHL Cup this past fall, suiting up for Team Alberta and notching three points (1G-2A), helping Alberta claim a silver medal.
TRADE: The @WHLGiants acquire @JoelSexsmith from the @SCBroncos in exchange for a first-round draft pick in 2019.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/3wXhR7uUdd pic.twitter.com/MINMQvm8Vt
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 8, 2018
4:00 p.m. MT – The Everett Silvertips have acquired Washington Capitals forward prospect Garrett Pilon (1998) and Dallas Stars defensive prospect Ondrej Vala (1998) from the Kamloops Blazers in exchange for forward Orrin Centazzo (2000), defenceman Montana Onyebuchi (2000) as well as prospects Kalen Ukrainetz (2002) and Nathanael Hinds (2002). The Blazers also received first and fourth round picks in the 2019 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
The Everett Silvertips put the rest of the Western Conference on notice Sunday afternoon, acquiring Washington Capitals forward prospect Garrett Pilon (1998) and Dallas Stars defensive prospect Ondrej Vala (1998) from the Kamloops Blazers in a blockbuster deal.
In 39 games this season, Pilon has 44 points (18G-26A), including four power play goals, two short-handed goals and one game-winner. Over the course of 177 WHL games, Pilon has 156 points (53G-103A), including eight power play goals, four short-handed goals and 12 game-winners. Vala, who recently represented the Czech Republic at the 2018 IIHF World Junior Championship, has 66 points (21G-45A) in 163 WHL games. In 31 games this season, the 6-foot-4, 211-pound product of Kolin, Czech Republic has 20 points (7G-13A).
“Today we addressed needs on our blueline and for our scoring depth which welcome individuals to the Silvertips family who carry elite abilities and outstanding credentials,” Silvertips general manager Garry Davidson. “Ondrej has leadership experience on an international level and combines his size with a very physical approach as a left shot on the back end.
“Garrett has evolved into a dependable and versatile 200-foot forward who is a threatening offensive presence, makes plays on a consistent basis, and plays the game with energy.”
TRADE: The @WHLsilvertips acquire @Capitals prospect @gpilon41 and @DallasStars prospect Ondrej Vala in blockbuster deal with @blazerhockey.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/Et7dtXzHmx pic.twitter.com/prVj1PJhnf
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 7, 2018
Saturday, January 6
10:00 p.m. MT – The Tri-City Americans have acquired Carolina Hurricanes defensive prospect Jake Bean (1998) from the Calgary Hitmen in exchange for forward Carson Focht (2000), defenceman Dakota Krebs (1999), a second-round draft pick in the 2018 WHL Bantam Draft, a first-round pick in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft and a second-round draft pick in the 2020 WHL Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
The Calgary Hitmen and Tri-City Americans pulled the trigger on a massive deal Saturday night, altering the future of both clubs for the better.
On the way to Kennewick, Wash. is 19-year-old Carolina Hurricanes defensive prospect Jake Bean, who was one of eight WHL players to win gold with Canada’s Junior National Team Friday at the 2018 IIHF World Junior Championship Friday.
Heading back the Hitmen’s way is five assets that will help them in the short and long term. The deal involves forward Carson Focht (2000) and defenceman Dakota Krebs (1999). Also headed to the Hitmen are the Americans’ second-round pick in the 2018 WHL Bantam Draft, a first-round selection in the 2019 draft and second-round selection in the 2020 draft.
“We would first like to commend Jake for his terrific career in Calgary. His contributions to our organization both on the ice and in the minor hockey community have been exceptional,” Hitmen general manager Jeff Chynoweth said. “This transaction provides us with another skilled 2000-born forward in Carson (Focht) and a three-year veteran in Dakota (Krebs) who will bring depth and experience to our defensive core.
TRADE: The @TCAmericans acquire @NHLCanes prospect @JakeBean_2 from the @WHLHitmen in a massive six-player deal.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/x1pjwSyWrd pic.twitter.com/HVYQmR2181
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 7, 2018
2:00 p.m. MT – The 2018 Mastercard Memorial Cup host Regina Pats have added veteran forward Austin Pratt (1999) from the Red Deer Rebels, sending a third-round selection in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft the other way. – COMPLETE STORY
The Regina Pats were expected to make a flurry of moves ahead of Wednesday’s Western Hockey League Trade Deadline and continued to make good on those expectations Saturday, making a deal with the Red Deer Rebels.
Heading to Regina is forward Austin Pratt, a 6-foot-3, 205-pound product of Lakeville, Minn. who was drafted by the Rebels in the fourth round, 75th overall, of the 2014 WHL Bantam Draft. Pratt has since played in 165 games with the Rebels, scoring 62 points (31G-31A). This season, Pratt has 16 points (7G-9A) in 39 games.
Pratt has two power play goals and four game-winning goals in his career. The 1999-born forward also brings plenty of playoff experience to the 2018 Mastercard Memorial Cup hosts. He played at the 2016 edition of the tournament when the Rebels hosted and has also appeared in 15 WHL playoff games.
In return, the Rebels have received a third-round draft pick in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft. The pick involved originally belonged to the Rebels and was acquired by the Pats in the Josh Mahura trade last season.
TRADE: The @WHLPats have acquired @AJPratt14 from the @Rebelshockey for a draft pick.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/DJ9XTKqNdv pic.twitter.com/vGdlzDVsw1
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 6, 2018
9:30 a.m. MT – The Prince Albert Raiders have added veteran forward Kody McDonald (1998) and a conditional third-round pick in the 2018 WHL Draft, sending defencemen Rhett Rhinehart (2001), Austin Crossley (1999) and a first-round pick in the 2018 WHL Bantam Draft to the Prince George Cougars. – COMPLETE STORY
If the WHL’s East Division wasn’t tough enough already, the Prince Albert Raiders are taking steps to ensure it’s that much more daunting down the stretch run.
Saturday morning, Raiders general manager Curtis Hunt went out and added a gritty, goal-scoring veteran in the form of Kody McDonald (1998), swinging a deal that should benefit his club not only for the duration of 2017-18, but with 2018-19 in mind as well.
In addition to McDonald, the Raiders gain a conditional third-round pick in the 2018 WHL Bantam Draft. While all that is very nice, it came at a special cost for Hunt as he shipped former first-round WHL Bantam Draft selection Rhett Rhinehart (2001), defenceman Austin Crossley (1999) and a first-round pick in the 2018 WHL Bantam Draft back to Prince George.
“We are very excited to add Kody to our lineup,” Hunt said in a Raiders release. “He is a player we have been pursuing for some time. He brings a scoring touch, grit, incredible competitiveness, and rounds out our group. We hope that he will be a two-year guy.
“Rhett is a good, young player. Due to our organizational depth and the work by our scouting staff, we were able to move a blue-chip prospect and that’s what it takes to get a player like Kody.”
“[Kody] brings a scoring touch, grit, incredible competitiveness, & rounds out our group.” – @PARaidersHockey GM Curtis Hunthttps://t.co/eFKYsTqVvG
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 6, 2018
Friday, January 5
4:10 p.m. MT – Moose Jaw Warriors acquire defenceman Brandon Schuldhaus (1998) and a fourth-round pick (2020) from the Red Deer Rebels in exchange for defenceman Colin Paradis (1998) and two second-round picks (2019, 2020). – COMPLETE STORY
2 p.m. MT – The 2018 Mastercard Memorial Cup host Regina Pats acquire Boston Bruins forward prospect Jesse Gabrielle (1997) and defenceman Jonas Harkins (2000) from the Prince George Cougars in exchange for forward Kjell Kjemhus (2001), defenceman Ethan McColm (2002) as well as third- and fifth-round picks in the 2018 WHL Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
The Regina Pats added some familiar firepower ahead of Wednesday’s WHL Trade Deadline, announcing the acquisition of 20-year-old forward Jesse Gabrielle from the Prince George Cougars on Friday.
Joining Gabrielle on the road to Regina is defenceman Jonas Harkins (2000). In exchange, the Cougars receive forward Kjell Kjemhus (2001), defenceman Ethan McColm (2002), a third-round pick (2018) and a fifth-round pick (2018).
“We are really excited to add a scorer of Gabrielle’s caliber,” said John Paddock, general manager and head coach of the Pats, in a team release. “He had a really productive last two seasons in the WHL and now brings some experience at the pro level to our team.”
Gabrielle, a 5-foot-11, 205-pound product of Moosomin, Sask., is a prospect of the NHL’s Boston Bruins (4-105, 2015) and to this point in the campaign had been playing the club’s AHL farm team in Providence, where he posted four points (1G-3A) in 21 games.
A scoring left winger with an agitator’s edge, Gabrielle enjoyed two outstanding seasons in Prince George, posting back-to-back years of 75 points and 64 points, respectively, in 2015-16 and 2016-17.
ICYMI: The @WHLPats added @NHLBruins prospect @JesseGabrielle to their lineup from the @PGCougars.
DETAILS ???? | https://t.co/LBLPamhdZQ pic.twitter.com/ijrEKqgRox
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 5, 2018
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