Trade Deadline Moves by Guelph Storm
In a strategic move ahead of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) trade deadline, the Guelph Storm has bolstered its offensive lineup by acquiring two 19-year-old forwards in separate trades. These transactions are clearly aimed at enhancing the team's scoring prowess as they gear up for what they hope will be a deep playoff run.
Acquiring Brody Crane from Niagara Ice Dogs
The Guelph Storm made a significant addition to their roster with the acquisition of forward Brody Crane from the Niagara Ice Dogs. In exchange for Crane's services, the Ice Dogs will receive a sixth-round pick in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection. This move reunites Crane with the Storm, as he was originally selected by the London Knights in the fourth round of the 2020 OHL Priority Selection.
Crane has demonstrated his potential this season, contributing three goals and six assists. His ability to find the back of the net, as well as set up his teammates, adds depth to the Storm's attack, which could prove crucial in high-stakes playoff games.
Zander Veccia Joins from Mississauga Steelheads
The Storm further strengthened their front line by trading for Zander Veccia, another promising young forward, from the Mississauga Steelheads. The transaction cost the Storm several future draft picks, including a valuable second-round selection in 2026. Veccia's impressive record this season, with eight goals and 21 assists, suggests that he is a player capable of making an immediate impact on the ice.
Storm's management is confident in Veccia's abilities to elevate the team's performance. "Zander has made steady progression throughout his OHL career," noted Burnett, highlighting the player's development. He went on to add, "He has the ability to have an impact in all areas of our team’s game," underscoring Veccia's versatility. Burnett also remarked on Veccia's skating and skills, stating, "He is a strong skater with good skill and has valuable playoff experience to help our group moving forward."
Departure of Juston DeZoete
To make room for the new additions, the Storm parted ways with Juston DeZoete, who was traded to the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. The return for DeZoete is a 10th-round pick in the 2025 OHL Priority Selection. DeZoete had recorded two assists over 22 games for the Storm, and the team wishes him success with his new squad.
Immediate Impact Expected
Both Crane and Veccia are expected to make their debut for the Storm in an upcoming game against the Greyhounds. This match-up will not only serve as a showcase for the newly acquired talent but will also provide a glimpse into how the Storm might perform in the postseason.
The trades signal a clear intention by the Storm to prioritize immediate success over long-term development, as evidenced by their willingness to trade away future draft picks. With these moves, the Storm are sending a message to their fans and the rest of the league: they are serious about making a significant impact in the playoffs this year.
As the regular season winds down, the Guelph Storm are in full preparation mode for the playoffs. By adding Crane and Veccia, the team hopes to have significantly improved their chances of offensive success. It's a calculated risk that management believes will pay dividends when it matters most.
In conclusion, the Guelph Storm's recent trades demonstrate a commitment to strengthening their offense in anticipation of a challenging playoff journey. The addition of Brody Crane and Zander Veccia, both experienced and skilled forwards, is expected to bring a new dynamic to the team. As the Storm prepare to integrate their new players into the lineup, the rest of the league will be watching closely to see if these strategic moves will indeed translate into the playoff success that the Storm are striving for.