WHL Trade Deadline 2019: Live Blog
The 2019 Western Hockey League Trade Deadline arrives Thursday, 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 2019: 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.
Thursday, January 10
5:20 p.m. MT – Kelowna Rockets claim defenceman Matt Barberis (1998) off waivers. – COMPLETE STORY
The Kelowna Rockets made a couple of moves during the Western Hockey League's Trade Deadline day. The Rockets released 20-year-old forward Lane Zablocki and claimed 20-year-old defenceman Matt Barberis from the Vancouver Giants.
Details➡️ https://t.co/Bp8SIqwlkf
📸Marissa Baecker pic.twitter.com/vipHjFDOJm— Kelowna Rockets (@Kelowna_Rockets) January 11, 2019
5:00 p.m. MT – Everett Silvertips acquire forward Robbie Holmes (1999) from the Regina Pats in exchange for forward Sloan Stanick (2003), a second-round selection in the 2020 WHL Bantam Draft and a sixth-round selection in the 2022 WHL Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
“We wish Robbie all the best in Everett,” said Pats VP of Hockey Operations and General Manager John Paddock. “He has been a great player on and off the ice here in Regina and been a big part of our success over the last four years.”
Holmes is the big piece in the deal in the short term. Originally selected in the 11th round, 232nd overall, by the Pats at the 2014 WHL Bantam Draft, the 6-foot-2, 186-pound Holmes has provided consistent secondary scoring for the Pats and should be a solid fit for the Silvertips’ middle six.
He’s spent the entirety of his 148-game WHL career with the Pats, making his WHL debut on January 29, 2016, scoring his first goal that same night against the Saskatoon Blades. In those 148 games, Holmes has recorded 56 points (29G-27A), including five power-play goals and two game-winning goals.
Also involved in the deal is the 15-year-old Stanick, a 5-foot-9, 152-pound product of Rapid City, Man. The Silvertips selected Stanick in the seventh round, 145th overall, of the 2018 WHL Bantam Draft. Playing his first season for the Yellowhead Midget AAA Chiefs, Stanick has 24 points (12G-12A) in 31 games. With their Bantam AAA team last year, Stanick had 59 points (28G-31A) in 36 games.
Stanick was made the second overall selection at the 2018 Manitoba Junior Hockey League Draft by the Dauhpin Kings. Sloan’s brother Slade is a listed prospect of the Silvertips as well.
TRADE: Robbie Holmes is on his way to the @WHLsilvertips following a WHL Trade Deadline deal with the @WHLPats!
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/eIldtmsvhY pic.twitter.com/wGYOTrB4tV
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 11, 2019
4:10 p.m. MT – Moose Jaw Warriors acquire forward Alec Zawatsky (1999) from the Swift Current Broncos in exchange for forward Tyler Smithies (2000), a fourth-round selection in the 2020 WHL Bantam Draft and a fifth-round selection in the 2021 WHL Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
For a team like the Warriors that have been one of the best surprise teams in the WHL’s Eastern Conference, the deal makes sense. In adding a contributing forward to their depth, the Warriors get stronger. This season, Zawatsky has put together 26 points (13G-13A) in 39 games with the Broncos, leading the team in scoring.
The trade makes Zawatsky the sixth-best scorer on the Warriors, who sit third in the East Division with a 21-9-5-2 record.
Zawatsky began his WHL career with the Blades in the 2017-18 WHL Regular Season, making his league debut on November 3, 2017 and scoring the first goal of his WHL career a few days later against the Warriors on November 15, 2017.
Overall, the 5-foot-8, 165-pound forward from Yorkton, Sask. has appeared in 82 WHL regular season games with the Broncos and Saskatoon Blades, amassing 34 points (16G-18A), including five power-play goals and a one game-winning goal.
In return the Broncos picked up three assets, including the 18-year-old Smithies, a 6-foot-1, 190-pound product of Beaumont, Alta.
Listed by the Warriors in 2016, Smithies began his WHL career with the Warriors in the 2016-17 season, making his WHL debut on November 10, 2016 and scoring the first goal of his WHL career on January 10, 2018 against the Calgary Hitmen.
In 57 WHL regular season games with the Hitmen, Smithies had eight points (3G-5A), including a pair of power-play goals. Smithies has also appeared in two WHL playoff games.
TRADE: The @MJWARRIORS added Alec Zawatsky from the @SCBroncos, bolstering their forward depth.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/SA1GNsM3aM pic.twitter.com/Akt8y0YY6Z
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 11, 2019
4:10 p.m. MT – Kootenay ICE acquire defenceman Chase Hartje (1999) from the Brandon Wheat Kings in exchange for a third-round selection in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
Hartje is a product of Bemidji, Minn., and a veteran of 93 career WHL games.
“Chase will add skill and experience to our blue line immediately,” said Matt Cockell, president and general manager of the ICE, in a team release. “We are excited to add him to our group and expect him to be a solid 20-year-old player for our team next season.”
The 5-foot-11, 185-pound blueliner enjoyed a solid breakout campaign during his rookie season, notching 25 points (3G-22A) in 58 games split between the Moose Jaw Warriors and Brandon Wheat Kings.
To this point in 2018-19, the mobile rearguard has registered 12 points (4G-8A) in 35 contests, and has logged a plus-11 rating with the Wheat Kings.
2:00 p.m. MT – Edmonton Oil Kings acquire forward Josh Williams (2001) from the Medicine Hat Tigers in exchange for forward Brett Kemp (2000). – COMPLETE STORY
Originally a fifth-overall selection at the 2016 WHL Bantam Draft, Williams battled injuries during his rookie campaign in 2016-17, registering 20 points (11G-9A) in only 47 outings.
With a combination of size, speed, and skill, Williams has represented Canada on the international stage on a number of occasions, most recently winning a gold medal with his country at the 2018 Hlinka Gretzky Cup in Red Deer and Edmonton this past summer.
On the other side of the deal, the Tigers receive the 18-year-old Kemp. The product of Yorkton, Sask., is near a point-per-game player this season, enjoying a breakout campaign with 39 points (22G-17A) in 40 contests.
“We are excited to welcome Brett and his family to the Tigers’ organization,” said Shaun Clouston, head coach and general manager of the Tigers, in a team release. “We look forward to working with him and helping him further develop. We would also like to thank Josh for his contributions to the Tigers and wish him all the best in Edmonton.”
Selected in the second round (41st) by the Everett Silvertips at the 2015 WHL Bantam Draft, the 6-foot, 162-pound left winger has amassed 89 points (43G-46A) in 146 career WHL regular season games.
3:45 p.m. MT – Vancouver Giants acquire defenceman Nicholas Draffin (2001) from the Red Deer Rebels in exchange for a seventh-round selection in the 2021 WHL Bantam Draft.
TRADE: Rebels send 17-year old prospect D Nic Draffin to the Vancouver Giants for a 7th round pick in the 2021 WHL Bantam Draft. Draffin has been playing with the Calgary Mustangs of the AJHL. #RDR pic.twitter.com/46HpujdFAr
— Red Deer Rebels (@Rebelshockey) January 10, 2019
TRADE 🔁: The Giants have acquired 2001-born defenceman Nicholas Draffin from the @Rebelshockey in exchange for a 7th round pick in 2021.
Read More 📎: https://t.co/UN2Gqgj09D
Welcome to Vancouver Nic! pic.twitter.com/GBPTPGCOi8
— Vancouver Giants (@WHLGiants) January 10, 2019
2:00 p.m. MT – Moose Jaw Warriors acquire forward Carson Denomie (2000) from the Kamloops Blazers in exchange for a seventh-round selection in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
The 6-foot-0, 195-pound Denomie was originally selected in the fifth round, 100th overall, by the Blazers in the 2015 WHL Bantam Draft. This year, Denomie has four points (1G-3A) in 36 games. Overall, he has 23 points (7G-16A) in 102 WHL regular season games, including one game-winning goal.
Denomie is a product of the Regina Pat Midget AAA Canadians where he recorded 46 points (16G-30A) in 44 games, helping his team capture the Saskatchewan Midget AAA Hockey League Championship in the 2016-17 season. He also added 10 points (4G-6A) in 11 games and was named to the second all-star team.
1:45 p.m. MT – Saskatoon Blades acquire forward Ryan Hughes (1999) from the Portland Winterhawks in exchange for forward Josh Paterson (1999), a second-round selection in the 2020 WHL Bantam Draft and a fourth-round selection in the 2021 WHL Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
Producing at a 1.11 point-per-game clip this season, Hughes is well on his way to surpassing his career-high totals of 57 points set during the 2016-17 WHL Regular Season. The Edmonton, Alta. product was listed by the Winterhawks after enjoying offensive success with the CAC Minor Midget AAA Canadians in the Alberta Minor Midget AAA Hockey League, posting 65 points (34G-31A) in 35 games during the 2014-15 season.
“Ryan has been a quality player for us over the last four years and we know he will continue his strong play in Saskatoon,” Vice President, General Manager and Head Coach Mike Johnston said. “Josh adds size, experience and leadership to our group and is a versatile forward who can produce offensively.”
The 5-foot-8, 153-pound forward currently has points in seven of his last eight games and recently surpassed the 150-point plateau for his WHL career. In 223 WHL regular season games, Hughes has 151 points (64G-87A), including 17 power-play goals, one short-handed goal, and 15 game-winning goals.
With the 6-foot-2, 205-pound Paterson, the Winterhawks add size and scoring to a team that is looking to dethrone the Everett Silvertips for the top seed in the U.S. Division and Western Conference. Paterson was selected in the second round, 25th overall, by the Blades at the 2014 WHL Bantam Draft.
“First and foremost, we want to thank Josh for everything he has done for us and his parents Sheryl and Brad, they’re at a lot of games and have become a big part of the Blades family over the past four years,” said Priestner. “Him signing with us when we were an unproven young team was a big deal for us, and I’ll always be grateful to Josh for that.”
Overall, Paterson has appeared in 246 WHL regular season games, posting 138 points (74G-64A), including 26 power-play goals, two short-handed goals, and eight game-winning goals.
Fans of @BladesHockey will appreciate the scoring skills of Ryan Hughes! He has 1️⃣5️⃣1️⃣ points (64G-87A) in 2️⃣2️⃣3️⃣ games!
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/PRKJNDgGbI pic.twitter.com/fbtNE1CO4x
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 10, 2019
Give a warm welcome to new @pdxwinterhawks forward Josh Paterson, who has 1️⃣3️⃣8️⃣ points (74G-64A) in 2️⃣4️⃣6️⃣ games!
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/PRKJNCZ4N8 pic.twitter.com/V4eZGaX5DF
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 10, 2019
11:00 a.m. MT – Tri-City Americans acquire forward Samuel Huo (2001) from the Seattle Thunderbirds in exchange for a conditional fifth-round selection in the 2020 WHL Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
A 6-foot-4, 184-pound product of Richmond, B.C., Huo has tallied a career-high nine points (3G-6A) in 34 games with Seattle this season.
“Samuel is a young, experienced forward with good upside,” said Bob Tory, general manager of the Americans, in a team release. “After the departure of Isaac Johnson and recent injuries we felt it was necessary to add another forward to our roster.”
Originally listed by the Thunderbirds, Huo signed a WHL Standard Player Agreement in August 2017. He followed up by dressing in 67 games with the Thunderbirds during his rookie season, registering six points (3G-3A) and 31 penalty minutes along the way. He also skated in five games during the 2018 WHL Playoffs.
TRADE: @TCAmericans acquire big-bodied @samhuo1 from @SeattleTbirds.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/II4R5SPAXR pic.twitter.com/bJ4KU1jH2J
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 10, 2019
11:00 a.m. MT – Prince Albert Raiders acquire goaltender Boston Bilous (2001) from the Edmonton Oil Kings in exchange for a conditional sixth-round selection in the 2022 WHL Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
In Bilous, the Raiders land a goaltender with 26 games of WHL experience.
“We would like to thank Boston for his contributions to both the Oil Kings organization and the Edmonton community,” said Kirt Hill, President of Hockey Operations and General Manager for the Oil Kings, in a team release. “We wish him success in all his future hockey endeavours.”
A product of Langley, B.C., he was originally selected in the fourth round (80th) of the 2016 WHL Bantam Draft. His selection in the WHL Bantam Draft came on the heels of an outstanding season with Delta Hockey Academy of the CSSHL, in which was named the league’s Top Goaltender.
After joining the Oil Kings for his first WHL training camp in September 2016, Bilous made the decision to sign a WHL Standard Player Agreement.
In two full seasons with the Oil Kings since then, the 6-foot-2, 173-pound puckstopper has earned a record of 3-14-1-1 with a 4.25 goals-against average, .846 save percentage and one shutout.
TRADE: @PARaidersHockey bolster blue paint with acquisition of @BilousBoston from @EdmOilKings.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/TEwHvdjArH pic.twitter.com/GOp762oUnj
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 10, 2019
10:30 a.m. MT – Spokane Chiefs sign forward Kaden Hanas (1999) to a WHL Standard Player Agreement – COMPLETE STORY
10:30 a.m. MT – Prince Albert Raiders acquire defenceman Loeden Schaufler (2000) from the Seattle Thunderbirds in exchange for an eighth-round selection in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft – COMPLETE STORY
Schaufler adds to the Raiders’ blue line with a 6-foot-1, 184-pound frame. The DeWinton, Alta. product has appeared in 21 games during the 2018-19 WHL Regular Season, recording two assists.
The defenceman was originally selected by the Kootenay ICE in the third round, 56th overall, of the 2015 WHL Bantam Draft. Schaufler made his WHL debut September 23, 2016 and appeared in 37 games with the ICE before being traded to the Thunderbirds on October 8, 2018. Overall, Schaufler has appeared in 57 WHL regular season games, posting eight assists.
TRADE: @PARaidersHockey' add to blue line with acquisition of Loeden Schaufler from @SeattleTbirds.
DETAILS 📰 | https://t.co/qYdVMFASyc pic.twitter.com/WnQ8zwLNxX
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 10, 2019
8:00 a.m. MT – Prince Albert Raiders acquire forward Bryce Bader (2001) and a conditional sixth-round selection in the 2021 WHL Bantam Draft from the Calgary Hitmen in exchange for forward Quinn Olson (2001) and a conditional sixth-round selection in the 2021 WHL Bantam Draft – COMPLETE STORY
Bader landed high on WHL radars prior to the 2016 WHL Bantam Draft after posting 69 points (25G-44A) in 36 games with the Sherwood Park AAA Bantam Flyers of the Alberta Major Bantam Hockey League. In 14 career WHL games, Bader has amassed four goals along with 11 penalty minutes.
The most intriguing piece heading to Calgary comes in the form of Olson, previously a sixth-round selection (128th) of the Raiders at the 2016 WHL Bantam Draft.
Olson, a 5-foot-11, 170-pound forward, is a product of Calgary and currently committed to the NCAA’s University of Minnesota-Duluth for the 2020-21 season.
There’s no questioning the ability to score at the junior level of the Calgary, Alta. product as he has proven his worth with the Okotoks Oilers of the Alberta Junior Hockey League, tallying more than a point per game over the past two seasons. In 84 contests with the Oilers over the past two seasons, Olson has 31 goals and 95 points to his credit.
“Olson is highly skilled forward who we believe can be a very good player in our league,” said Jeff Chynoweth, general manager of the Hitmen, in a team release. “We are excited to start the recruitment process with the goal of having Quinn play for the Calgary Hitmen.”
Noteworthy is the fact that Olson is the younger brother of Tri-City Americans forward and Anaheim Ducks prospect Kyle Olson.
.@bryvebader is the newest member of @PARaidersHockey following a deadline-day deal with the @WHLHitmen.
DETAILS 📰 | https://t.co/1BnY5jvCsj pic.twitter.com/4IJvgU5mNM
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 10, 2019
Wednesday, January 9
12:00 p.m. MT – Kootenay ICE acquire defenceman Brenden Kwiatkowski (2000) from the Moose Jaw Warriors in exchange for a ninth-round selection in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft – COMPLETE STORY
Overall, Kwiatkowski has three assists in 36 WHL regular season games. A product of the Grande Prairie Midget AAA Storm, Kwiatkowski recorded 16 points (2G-14A) in 34 games with the team during the 2016-17 Alberta Midget AAA Hockey League season. He’s also appeared in 22 games with the Grande Prairie Storm of the Alberta Junior Hockey League, recording five assists.
TRADE: @WHLKootenayICE acquire defenceman Brenden Kwiatkowski from the @MJWARRIORS for a draft pick.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/smBs4WYJZQ pic.twitter.com/MjGiH15PmD
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 9, 2019
12:00 p.m. MT – Brandon Wheat Kings acquire defenceman Braydyn Chizen (1998) and a fifth-round selection in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft from the Kelowna Rockets in exchange for defenceman Schael Higson – COMPLETE STORY
“We had the chance to add Higson, we feel that he will add a physical presence to our hockey team,” said Rockets General Manager, Bruce Hamilton. “I think that both players are in the same boat, a change of address will benefit them both.”
Overall, Higson has appeared in 282 WHL regular season games, posting 79 points (18G-61A), including two power-play goals and five game-winning goals. Higson won a WHL Championship with the Wheat Kings in 2016.
Chizen has appeared in 211 WHL regular season games posting 34 points (11G-23A), including one short-handed goal and two game-winning goals.
TRADE: The @Kelowna_Rockets & @bdnwheatkings swap overage defencemen in Higson & Chizen.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/uHRAyzeEJS pic.twitter.com/bCzYwKhWp3
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 9, 2019
10:45 a.m. MT – Swift Current Broncos sign goaltender Riley Lamb (1998) to a WHL Standard Player Agreement – COMPLETE STORY
.@SCBroncos clarify crease, sign @Riley_Lamb to WHL SPA following trade of Hofer.
DETAILS 📰 | https://t.co/t4nNDUkM4G pic.twitter.com/wZl4DglPGv
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 9, 2019
10:00 a.m. MT – Kootenay ICE sign goaltender Curtis Meger to a WHL Standard Player Agreement – COMPLETE STORY
.@WHLKootenayICE solidify overage situation, signing goaltender @CurtisMeger37 to WHL SPA.
DETAILS 📰 | https://t.co/CcWIXTGW79 pic.twitter.com/kyCjc0sgmf
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 9, 2019
9:00 a.m. MT – Portland Winterhawks acquire goaltender Joel Hofer (2000) from the Swift Current Broncos in exchange for first and third round selections in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft, second, fourth, and fifth-round selections in the 2020 WHL Bantam Draft, and a first-round selection in the 2021 WHL Bantam Draft– COMPLETE STORY
It’s a steep price to pay, but a deal worth making in the eyes of Johnston as his team sits 11 points behind the Everett Silvertips for first place in the U.S. Division and Western Conference. With a talented forward core at his disposal that includes two of the leagues top 10 scorers in Joachim Blichfeld (San Jose Sharks) and captain Cody Glass (Vegas Golden Knights), the time to make a move was now.
“We are excited to add Joel to our group for the next two seasons,” Johnston said. “He has proven to be an elite goaltender in the Eastern Conference.”
At the 2018 National Hockey League Draft, Hofer was selected in the fourth round, 107th overall, by the Blues. Hofer was the top WHL goaltender selected at the draft.
Hofer will be going to a Manitoban-friendly team, with Glass, rookie forward Seth Jarvis, rookie defenceman Nick Cicek, and rookie goaltender Dante Giannuzzi all contributing to the Winterhawks’ success through their first 40 games.
Check out highlights of @pdxwinterhawks goaltender Joel Hofer from the first half of the 2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣8️⃣-1️⃣9️⃣ WHL Regular Season.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/qm9Ij6hgEZ pic.twitter.com/yom4Sy7lCM
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 9, 2019
TRADE: The @pdxwinterhawks have acquired @StLouisBlues prospect @joelhofer123 from @SCBroncos!
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/qm9Ij5ZFgp pic.twitter.com/KR72pp8g7P
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 9, 2019
Monday, January 7
6:00 p.m. MT – Saskatoon Blades acquire forward Cyle McNabb (2000) from the Kootenay ICE in exchange for forward Brandon Machado (2000) and a fifth-round pick in the 2021 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft– COMPLETE STORY
Machado made his WHL on January 27, 2017 and scored the first goal of his WHL career on January 16, 2018. Overall, Machado has appeared in 97 WHL regular season games, posting seven points (3G-4A).
McNabb made his WHL debut on September 22, 2017 and scored his first goal October 7, 2017 against the Tri-City Americans. McNabb has also appeared in six WHL playoff games. McNabb was dealt to the ICE Friday in exchange for 20-year-old defenceman Dallas Hines. He played three games with the ICE, recording one assist and two penalty minutes.
TRADE: Cyle McNabb & Brandon Machado have new teams after a Monday deal between the @WHLKootenayICE & @BladesHockey.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/V4evIR2QWv pic.twitter.com/YoVuIqTaKa
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 8, 2019
2:30 p.m. MT – Swift Current Broncos acquire forward Tyler Lees (2000) from the Victoria Royals in exchange for a conditional ninth-round pick in the 2021 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft– COMPLETE STORY
Throughout his 66 career WHL games between the Royals and the Blades, Lees recorded seven points (4G-3A). This season, the 5-foot-11, 170-pound product of Regina, Sask. played 27 games with Victoria, earning three points (1G-2A).
TRADE: The @SCBroncos have acquired Tyler Lees from the @victoriaroyals in exchange for a conditional draft pick.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/Ce5tIR2SUN pic.twitter.com/4YfjIVlwKd
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 7, 2019
Friday, January 4
2:00 p.m. MT – Vancouver Giants acquire defenceman Dallas Hines (1998) from the Kootenay ICE in exchange for forward Cyle McNabb (2000) – COMPLETE STORY
A 20-year-old product of Marwayne, Alta., Hines will provide 221 WHL regular season games of experience to the Giants’ blue line. The 6-foot-3, 196-pound forward was originally selected in the fifth round, 97th overall, at the 2013 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft. Overall, Hines has 68 points (16G-52A) during his WHL career, including eight power-play goals and three game-winning goals.
“Dallas has been an important member of our team and leader in the community,” said ICE President and General Manager Matt Cockell. “We wish him the best of luck in Vancouver.”
McNabb has played in 95 WHL regular season games during the course of his career since then, totaling 11 points (2G-9A), including one game-winning goal. A product of the Rink Hockey Academy Prep program, McNabb recorded 25 points (9G-16A) in 29 games during the 2016-17 season in the Canadian Sport School Hockey League.
A 1️⃣-for-1️⃣ deal between @WHLKootenayICE & @WHLGiants has sent 20-year-old @Dally_02 to the Lower Mainland!
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/yGw3Mw97dM pic.twitter.com/tixBhbDLHd
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 4, 2019
12:00 p.m. MT – Seattle Thunderbirds acquire forward Henry Rybinski (2001) from the Medicine Hat Tigers in exchange for defenceman Aidan Brook (2003), a second-round selection in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft and a third-round selection in the 2020 WHL Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
“We feel we acquired a top end 17-year old that will help our group for this year and years to come,” said Thunderbirds general manager Bil La Forge. “Henry will join the team on our East Division road trip.”
The Vancouver, B.C. product was originally selected in the second round, 34th overall, of the 2016 WHL Bantam Draft. The 6-foot-1, 176-pound forward has appeared in 77 WHL regular season games over the past two seasons with the Tigers, recording 17 points (4G-13A), including one power-play goal.
Brook is also a solid addition for the Tigers’ prospect pool. Playing with the Rink Hockey Academy Elite 15s, Aidan has 20 points (1G-19A) in 25 games this season. Brook will represent Hockey Manitoba at the 2019 Canada Winter games in Red Deer, Alta.
TRADE: The @tigershockey & @SeattleTbirds came together on a deal Friday, sending Henry Rybinski & Aidan Brook to new teams.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/XpHoVspld0 pic.twitter.com/KRO5uPuzOq
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 4, 2019
10:00 a.m. MT – Vancouver Giants acquire forward Jadon Joseph (1999) from the Regina Pats in exchange for a second-round selection in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft and a sixth-round selection in the 2020 WHL Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
“We wish Jadon success in Vancouver,” said Pats VP of Hockey Operations and General Manager John Paddock. “While it’s always tough to trade away a good player, the draft picks coming back in the deal are important for the future of our hockey team.”
In 36 games this season between the Hurricanes and Pats, Joseph has 25 points (12G-13A), including three power-play goals. Overall, Joseph has appeared in 157 WHL regular season games, posting 72 points (24G-48A), including six power-play goals and one game-winning goal.
The 6-foot-1, 172-pound forward has also appeared in 36 WHL playoff games, recording 15 points (5G-10A), including one power-play goal, one short-handed goal, and one game-winning goal.
New @WHLGiants forward @jadonj9 has 7️⃣2️⃣ points (24G-48A) in his WHL career.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/05gyFShYbx pic.twitter.com/MEWKpbKo63
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 4, 2019
TRADE: The @WHLGiants have acquired @jadonj9 from the @WHLPats for a pair of draft picks.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/05gyFShYbx pic.twitter.com/mP9Cxidot4
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 4, 2019
Thursday, January 3
3:30 p.m. MT – Prince Albert Raiders acquire forward Dante Hannoun (1998) as well as fourth and eighth-round selections in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft from the Victoria Royals in exchange for forward Kody McDonald (1998), forward Carson Miller (2000) and a third-round selection in the 2020 WHL Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
If it wasn’t clear before, it is now; the Prince Albert Raiders are going for it.
A six-piece trade between the Raiders and Victoria Royals has sent overage forward Dante Hannoun to northern Saskatchewan.
Hannoun is a solid offensive get for the Raiders, who have led the WHL since the start of the year and entered 2019 as the CHL’s top-ranked team with a 34-3-0-1 record. The 5-foot-6, 160-pound Delta, B.C. product was originally selected by the Royals with 11th overall pick at the 2013 WHL Bantam Draft. Since then, Hannoun has appeared in 286 WHL regular season games, posting 248 points (98G-150A), including 35 power-play goals, one short-handed goal, and 15 game-winning goals.
This season, Hannoun has 36 points (19G-17A) in 28 games, including five power-play goals and four game-winning goals. Hannoun recently recorded a four-goal game against the Lethbridge Hurricanes, the third hat trick of his WHL career. Hannoun has 15 multi-goal games in his WHL career, including four this season. Of his 28 games played this season, Hannoun has 10 multi-point games, giving him 67 in his WHL career.
“We are excited to add a prolific scorer like Dante to an already potent lineup,” said Raiders General Manager Curtis Hunt. “Dante brings speed, character, and compliments the leadership we already have in the organization.
New @victoriaroyals forward Kody McDonald returns to the B.C. Division & has 1️⃣7️⃣4️⃣ points (81G-93A) in 2️⃣9️⃣5️⃣ games.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/6mGLyMK7nC pic.twitter.com/ICZI9Rujn4
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 3, 2019
New @victoriaroyals forward Carson Miller recorded a hat trick on opening night & brings offensive talent to the Royals!
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/6mGLyMK7nC pic.twitter.com/ScaFZ9FoMn
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 3, 2019
TRADE: @hannoun19 is headed to the @PARaidersHockey after a Thursday blockbuster with the @victoriaroyals!
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/6mGLyMsvZ2 pic.twitter.com/eBCpk2LSC1
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 3, 2019
11:00 a.m. MT – Regina Pats acquire defenceman Tyson Feist (2001) and a 10th-round selection in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft from the Regina Pats in exchange for a fifth-round selection in the 2021 WHL Bantam Draft and an eighth-round selection in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
The 6-foot-3, 177-pound Feist made his WHL debut with the Chiefs on September 23, 2017. Since then, he’s appeared in 33 WHL regular season games, posting five assists.
Feist played 27 games with the Spokane Braves of the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League last season, posting 17 points (2G-15A).
“We would like to welcome Tyson to Regina,” said Pats VP of Hockey Operations and GM John Paddock. “He is a big body defenceman and a right-handed shot which will be a good addition to our group.”
TRADE: The 3️⃣rd deal of the morning sees the @WHLPats acquire defenceman Tyson Feist from the @spokanechiefs.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/aRJIhdwB0G pic.twitter.com/5hfFTea6IF
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 3, 2019
9:45 a.m. MT – Lethbridge Hurricanes acquire forward Scott Mahovlich (1999) and an eighth-round selection in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft from the Regina Pats in exchange for a third-round selection in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
“We wish Scott all the best in Lethbridge,” said Pats VP of Hockey Operations and GM John Paddock. “He has been a credit to our organization on and off the ice.”
Overall, the 6-foot-2, 186-pound forward has appeared in 130 WHL regular season games, posting 18 points (6G-12A), including one power-play goal and one short-handed goal. Mahovlich has also appeared in 10 WHL playoff games.
TRADE: The @WHLHurricanes add forward depth, picking up Scott Mahovlich from the @WHLPats.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/LcxFgPEo0G pic.twitter.com/Wwb7idGcyW
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 3, 2019
8:00 a.m. MT – Kootenay ICE acquire defenceman Marco Creta (2000) from the Regina Pats in exchange for forward Blake Allan (2001) – COMPLETE STORY
Allan, a product of Davidson, Sask., is heading back to his home province following the deal. The 6-foot-1, 166-pound forward was originally selected by the ICE KTN in the third round, 56th overall, of the 2016 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft. Allan made his WHL debut with the ICE on February 6, 2018 and later scored the first goal of his WHL career on March 11, 2018 against the Edmonton Oil Kings.
Overall, the 17-year-old Allan has appeared in 35 WHL regular season games with the ICE, recording five points (1G-4A).
Heading the other way in the deal is Creta, an 18-year-old product of Oak Bluff, Man. The 5-foot-9, 164-pound defender made his WHL debut with the Pats on September 23, 2017, later scoring the first goal of his WHL career October 20, 2017 against the Victoria Royals. The defenceman has appeared in 66 WHL regular season games, posting 14 points (3G-11A), including one game-winning goal.
TRADE: The @WHLPats & @WHLKootenayICE came together on a 1️⃣-for-1️⃣ swap early Thursday.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/RaDL2aLhWm pic.twitter.com/M0IvjBnq0I
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 3, 2019
Wednesday, January 2
5:00 p.m. MT – Tri-City Americans acquire forward Nick Bowman (2000) from the Kootenay ICE in exchange for a sixth-round selection in the 2021 WHL Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
The 18-year-old Bowman was originally selected by the Edmonton Oil Kings in the sixth round, 115th overall, at the 2015 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft. A trade at the 2018 WHL Bantam Draft sent the 6-foot-0, 195-pound forward to the Moose Jaw Warriors. He was dealt to the ICE in a deal that sent the Taphorn brothers the other way.
Bowman has appeared in 137 WHL regular season games and has recorded 29 points (15G-14A), including six power-play goals and two game-winning goals.
TRADE: A Wednesday deal has sent Nick Bowman from the @WHLKootenayICE to the @TCAmericans.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/jaREmWrPZa pic.twitter.com/TPnwG0x2Pq
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 3, 2019
1:00 p.m. MT – Vancouver Giants acquire defenceman Seth Bafaro (2000) from the Saskatoon Blades in exchange for a fifth-round selection in the 2021 WHL Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
The 5-foot-11, 186-pound defenceman from Revelstoke, B.C. was originally selected in the third round, 49th overall, of the 2015 WHL Bantam Draft by the Tri-City Americans.
Bafaro made his WHL debut on November 25, 2015 against the Everett Silvertips and scored the first goal of his WHL career October 11, 2017 with the Blades. Bafaro joined the Blades ahead of the 2017-18 WHL Regular Season. Overall, he’s appeared in 116 WHL regular season games, recording 18 points (7G-11A), including one power-play goal and two game-winning goals.
TRADE: The @WHLGiants have acquired Seth Bafaro from the @BladesHockey for a draft pick.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/gwWk0gTPet pic.twitter.com/AN5pfIf5XG
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 2, 2019
1:00 p.m. MT – Saskatoon Blades acquire defenceman Reece Harsch (1999) from the Seattle Thunderbirds in exchange for defenceman Zach Ashton (2001) and a fifth-round selection in the 2022 WHL Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
The Seattle Thunderbirds executed their third trade in the past two days Wednesday, making a deal with the Saskatoon Blades.
For a team with aspirations of competing now, the Blades are adding a veteran body in Harsch, who has posted 10 points (2G-8A), including a pair of power-play goals in 28 games this season.
The Grande Prairie, Alta. product was originally selected in the eighth round, 170th overall, of the 2014 WHL Bantam Draft by the Thunderbirds. Since then, he’s appeared in 149 WHL regular season games with the Thunderbirds, recording 47 points (15G-32A), including eight power-play goals.
Ashton has appeared in 11 WHL regular season games, posting a single assist. A product of the Calgary Midget AAA Buffaloes program, Ashton recorded 31 points (5G-26A) while playing in 35 games last season in the Alberta Midget AAA Hockey League.
TRADE: A Wednesday deal between the @SeattleTbirds & @BladesHockey has sent @HarschReece to the Blades.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/TqgzOYvLFv pic.twitter.com/vxkLb9UaiF
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 2, 2019
11:45 a.m. MT – Spokane Chiefs acquire goaltender Reece Klassen (1999) from the Lethbridge Hurricanes in exchange for a seventh-round selection in the 2020 WHL Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
Goaltender movement in the WHL continued Wednesday as the Lethbridge Hurricanes and Spokane Chiefs came together on a trade.
“Reece will be a good fit in our dressing room and are excited to welcome him to our organization,” said general manager Scott Carter.
The 6-foot-3, 185-pound Klassen is a product of Cloverdale, B.C. In 26 games this season, he’s posted an 11-4-4-3 record 3.57 GAA, and a 0.891 SV%. Overall, Klassen has appeared in 49 WHL regular season games, posting a 16-12-7-3 record, 3.5 GAA, and a 0.889 SV%.
TRADE: @ReeceKlassen is the newest member of the @spokanechiefs following a trade with the @WHLHurricanes Wednesday.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/7tT6utgqJ8 pic.twitter.com/3zSosrvO6M
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 2, 2019
Tuesday, January 1
7:45 p.m. MT – Lethbridge Hurricanes acquire goaltender Liam Hughes (1999) and a fourth-round selection in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft from the Seattle Thunderbirds in exchange for forward Keltie Jeri-Leon (2002), forward Michael Horon (2001), and a eighth-round selection in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
As the Central Division race heats up into the second half of the season, the Lethbridge Hurricanes made a play to make another deep playoff run, strengthening their crease with the acquisition of Liam Hughes from the Seattle Thunderbirds.
In 72 WHL regular season games, the Kelowna, B.C. product has a record of 27-32-10-1, 3.37 goals-against-average, and a 0.903 save percentage. The 6-foo-t-3, 197-pound goaltender has also appeared in five WHL playoff games, sporting a 1-4 record, 3.77 GAA, and a 0.910 SV%.
Heading the other way in the deal is Jeri-Leon, who was originally selected by the Tri-City Americans in the fifth round, 93rd overall, at the 2015 WHL Bantam Draft. In 30 games this season, Jeri-Leon has 14 points (5G-9A), including three power-play goals. Overall, Jeri-Leon has appeared in 130 WHL regular season games with the Americans, Kamloops Blazers, and Hurricanes, totaling 32 points (15G-17A)
New @WHLHurricanes acquisition Liam Hughes brings plenty of strengths to the crease!
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/uX4v2E1Cgf pic.twitter.com/xE1oYOmAnV
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 2, 2019
TRADE: The @WHLHurricanes strengthen their crease by adding Liam Hughes from the @SeattleTbirds!
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/uX4v2E1Cgf pic.twitter.com/5px8m7WIcB
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 2, 2019
1:00 p.m. MT – Everett Silvertips acquire forward Zack Andrusiak (1998) from the Seattle Thunderbirds in exchange for forward Sean Richards (1998), forward Brendan Williamson (2002), a second-round selection in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft, a third-round selection in the 2021 WHL Bantam Draft, and a conditional fourth-round selection in the 2022 WHL Bantam Draft. – COMPLETE STORY
“We set a goal leading up to the trade deadline to make a significant offensive upgrade for our club and Zack Andrusiak was a player we’ve targeted for a while who meets our needs,” said Silvertips general manager Garry Davidson. “He’s a finisher and respected as a proven goal scorer in the WHL.
The 20-year-old Armstrong, B.C. product has been a staple of the Thunderbirds’ offence for the past two seasons. Andrusiak originally made his WHL debut with the Tri-City Americans on December 31, 2014. Since then, he’s appeared in 173 WHL regular season games, including eight and seven-game stints with the Prince Albert Raiders and Americans respectively, totaling 124 points (69G-55A) including 17 power-play goals, one short-handed goal, and five game-winning goals.
“Zack has been having a very good year for us which made making this trade difficult,” said Thunderbirds general manager Bil La Forge.
Andrusiak finished tied for second among all WHL players in regular season goal scoring during the 2018 calendar year, notching 45 goals.
TRADE: A Tuesday blockbuster has sent @ZackAndrusiak27 from the @SeattleTbirds to the @WHLsilvertips.
DETAILS 🔁 | https://t.co/dBjp6pa08G pic.twitter.com/WtABKI9dni
— The WHL (@TheWHL) January 1, 2019
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