Trade Deadline Moves by Guelph Storm
The Ontario Hockey League's (OHL) trade deadline has passed, and the Guelph Storm have been active participants, executing a series of trades aimed at bolstering their forward lineup as they gear up for what they hope will be a deep playoff run. The Storm secured two 19-year-old forwards in separate deals, adding talent and experience to their roster.
Acquisition of Brody Crane from Niagara Ice Dogs
In a strategic move, the Guelph Storm acquired forward Brody Crane from the Niagara Ice Dogs. Crane, who was originally selected by the London Knights in the fourth round of the 2020 OHL Priority Selection, has shown promise this season. With a tally of three goals and six assists, he brings potential offensive upside to his new team. In exchange, the Ice Dogs received a sixth-round pick in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection, indicating a longer-term rebuilding strategy on their part.
Zander Veccia Joins from Mississauga Steelheads
The Storm also welcomed Zander Veccia to their ranks through a trade with the Mississauga Steelheads. Veccia's performance this season has been notable, having scored eight goals and contributed 21 assists. His arrival comes at the cost of several future draft picks from the Storm, including a coveted second-round pick in 2026. This trade underscores the Storm's commitment to immediate success, as they look to Veccia to make a significant impact during their playoff campaign.
Departure of Juston DeZoete to Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds
In a corresponding move to balance the roster and perhaps manage assets, the Storm parted ways with Juston DeZoete, trading him to the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. DeZoete, who had recorded two assists in 22 games for the Storm, was traded for a 10th-round pick in the 2025 OHL Priority Selection. This exchange adds a future draft option for the Storm while providing DeZoete with an opportunity for a fresh start with the Greyhounds.
Playoff Preparation and Offensive Strengthening
The Guelph Storm are clearly in preparation mode for the playoffs, and these trades serve a dual purpose: to enhance their offensive capabilities and to signal a shift towards prioritizing immediate performance over long-term development. By trading away future draft picks, the Storm organization is expressing confidence in their current core group and their ability to contend for the championship this season.
The newly acquired forwards, Crane and Veccia, are set to debut for the Storm in an upcoming game against the very team that has welcomed DeZoete, the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. This matchup will provide an early and intriguing test for both teams' trade deadline decisions.
Management's Confidence in New Additions
The Storm's front office, led by General Manager George Burnett, has expressed optimism about the recent acquisitions. Speaking on Veccia's addition to the team, Burnett praised the forward's growth throughout his OHL career. "Zander has made steady progression throughout his OHL career," said Burnett. He further emphasized Veccia's versatility, stating, "He has the ability to have an impact in all areas of our team’s game." Burnett also highlighted Veccia's attributes that could prove crucial in the postseason, remarking, "He is a strong skater with good skill and has valuable playoff experience to help our group moving forward."
As the regular season winds down, the Guelph Storm's trades reflect a clear strategy: reinforce the team's offense to make a serious push in the playoffs. The acquisition of two seasoned forwards in Crane and Veccia could be the catalyst the Storm need to elevate their game at the most critical time of the year. With the added pressure of trading away future prospects, it's evident that the organization is banking on the present squad to deliver results. Fans will eagerly await the on-ice results of these strategic moves as the Storm surge towards what they hope will be a memorable playoff performance.