Trade Deadline Moves by Guelph Storm
In a strategic bid to bolster their offensive lineup before the playoffs, the Guelph Storm of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) executed a pair of trades as the deadline approached. The team's management made clear their intention to push for immediate success this season by acquiring two 19-year-old forwards, enhancing their scoring capabilities and experience on the ice.
Acquisition of Brody Crane from Niagara Ice Dogs
The Guelph Storm welcomed forward Brody Crane into their ranks through a trade with the Niagara Ice Dogs. In exchange for Crane's services, the Ice Dogs received a sixth-round selection in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection. Crane, who was initially chosen in the fourth round of the 2020 draft by the London Knights, has demonstrated his potential this season by tallying three goals and contributing six assists.
Zander Veccia Joins from Mississauga Steelheads
Further strengthening their offense, the Storm acquired Zander Veccia from the Mississauga Steelheads. Veccia, whose performance this season includes eight goals and 21 assists, is expected to add significant depth to the Storm's attacking options. To secure Veccia, the Storm parted with several future draft picks, including a valuable second-round pick in the 2026 draft, signaling a clear focus on fortifying their roster for a deep playoff run.
Juston DeZoete Departs to Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds
As part of the roster adjustments, Juston DeZoete was traded from the Guelph Storm to the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. The Storm received a 10th-round pick in the 2025 OHL Priority Selection in return for DeZoete, who recorded two assists over 22 games this season with the team.
Immediate Impact Expected
The newly acquired duo, Crane and Veccia, are slated to make their debut for the Storm in an upcoming game against the Greyhounds. This match will provide an early glimpse into the potential impact the two forwards can have on the team's dynamics as they integrate into the Storm's system.
With the playoffs on the horizon, the Guelph Storm are evidently preparing to contend at a high level. The trades were strategically made to enhance the team's offensive firepower, a move that reflects the organization's desire for success in the postseason. By trading away future draft picks, the Storm have emphasized their commitment to winning now, rather than building for the future.
Management's Confidence in New Additions
George Burnett, a key figure within the Storm's management, expressed his confidence in the abilities of the newly acquired Veccia. He highlighted Veccia's steady progression throughout his OHL career and noted his potential to influence various aspects of the team's play. "He has the ability to have an impact in all areas of our team’s game," said Burnett.
Burnett also praised Veccia's skating prowess and skill set, along with his invaluable playoff experience, which could prove critical in the Storm's pursuit of playoff success. "He is a strong skater with good skill and has valuable playoff experience to help our group moving forward," remarked Burnett.
In conclusion, the Guelph Storm's recent transactions underscore a calculated risk by the organization to enhance their chances of postseason glory. By bringing in Crane and Veccia, the team hopes to inject fresh talent and energy into their lineup, while the departure of DeZoete opens up opportunities for the new forwards to shine. As the playoffs approach, the Storm's fans will be watching closely to see if these moves pay off and propel the team to the heights they aspire to reach.