Trade Deadline Moves by the Guelph Storm
In a strategic push for playoff contention, the Guelph Storm have made significant moves before the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) trade deadline. The team has bolstered its offensive lineup by acquiring two 19-year-old forwards, aiming to enhance their scoring depth as they prepare for a deep playoff run.
Acquiring Brody Crane from Niagara Ice Dogs
The Guelph Storm announced the addition of forward Brody Crane, who was traded from the Niagara Ice Dogs. In exchange, the Ice Dogs will receive a sixth-round pick in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection. Crane, originally selected by the London Knights in the fourth round of the 2020 draft, brings a modest scoring touch to the Storm with his three goals and six assists so far this season.
Zander Veccia Joins from Mississauga Steelheads
Adding more firepower, Zander Veccia joins the Storm's ranks after being traded from the Mississauga Steelheads. Veccia's performance this season has been noteworthy, with eight goals and 21 assists to his name. The trade for Veccia did not come cheap, as the Storm parted with several future draft picks, including a valuable second-round selection in 2026. This move signifies the organization's commitment to immediate success over long-term development.
Juston DeZoete Departs to Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds
As part of their trade activities, the Storm also bid farewell to Juston DeZoete, who has been traded to the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. DeZoete's time with the Storm yielded two assists across 22 games. In return, the Storm will receive a 10th-round pick in the 2025 OHL Priority Selection. This trade further emphasizes the Storm's intent to leverage their current assets for immediate on-ice improvements.
New Additions Set to Debut Against Greyhounds
The newly acquired duo, Crane and Veccia, are slated to make their debut for the Storm in an upcoming game against the Greyhounds. This matchup will be an opportunity for the new forwards to showcase their abilities and for the team to evaluate the impact of their recent roster changes.
Storm's Playoff Preparations
With the playoffs on the horizon, the Guelph Storm are taking decisive action to ensure their team is in prime condition to compete. The addition of Crane and Veccia is a clear indication of the team's desire to strengthen their offense. By trading away future draft picks, the Storm have signaled a focus on capitalizing on the current season, suggesting that management believes the team has the potential to make a significant impact in the postseason.
Management's Perspective
George Burnett, the team's head coach, expressed confidence in the new additions. Regarding Veccia, Burnett stated, "Zander has made steady progression throughout his OHL career." He went on to praise Veccia's comprehensive skill set, noting, "He has the ability to have an impact in all areas of our team’s game." Burnett also highlighted Veccia's skating prowess, good skill level, and valuable playoff experience as assets that will support the team's objectives moving forward.
The trades made by the Guelph Storm reflect a strategic approach to building a competitive team for the playoffs. With the acquisition of two promising forwards and the trade of a less productive player, the Storm are positioning themselves for what they hope will be a successful postseason campaign. The team's willingness to trade future draft picks underscores a win-now mentality that could energize the roster and fanbase alike. As the regular season winds down, all eyes will be on how these moves translate into on-ice results, particularly in high-stakes playoff scenarios.