Guelph Storm Bolsters Offense with Strategic Trades Ahead of Playoffs
In a decisive move to strengthen their offensive line-up, the Guelph Storm has completed two significant trades before the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) trade deadline. The team strategically acquired a pair of 19-year-old forwards, aiming to enhance their scoring prowess as they prepare for a deep playoff run.
Acquiring Brody Crane from Niagara Ice Dogs
The first trade brought Brody Crane over from the Niagara Ice Dogs. In exchange for Crane's services, the Ice Dogs will receive a sixth-round selection in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection. Originally picked by the London Knights in the fourth round of the 2020 draft, Crane has demonstrated his potential this season with three goals and six assists. His performance indicates that he could be a valuable asset to the Storm's offensive strategy.
Zander Veccia Joins from Mississauga Steelheads
The Storm also welcomed Zander Veccia from the Mississauga Steelheads. Veccia has been impressive this season, netting eight goals and contributing 21 assists. To secure Veccia, the Storm parted with several future draft picks, including a coveted second-round pick in the 2026 draft. This move signals the Storm's commitment to immediate success, prioritizing current performance over long-term prospect development.
Departure of Juston DeZoete to Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds
In another trade, the Storm bid farewell to Juston DeZoete, who was sent to the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. The transaction saw the Storm receiving a 10th-round pick in the 2025 OHL Priority Selection. DeZoete, having contributed two assists in 22 games for the Storm, will now seek to make an impact with the Greyhounds.
Crane and Veccia Set for Debut Against Former Teams
Both Crane and Veccia are slated to make their debut for the Storm in an upcoming game against the Greyhounds. This matchup will not only serve as an introduction to their new team but also offer an immediate test against formidable opponents.
The Guelph Storm, with eyes firmly set on the playoffs, believes these trades will significantly bolster their offensive capabilities. By adding Crane and Veccia to their roster, the Storm have clearly indicated their intent to pursue a championship this season. The organization's willingness to trade away future draft picks underscores a strategy focused on winning now rather than building for the future.
Management's Confidence in New Additions
Speaking on the acquisition of Veccia, Burnett, a representative of the Storm, expressed high hopes for the forward's contribution to the team. "Zander has made steady progression throughout his OHL career," said Burnett, emphasizing the player's growth and potential. He went on to highlight Veccia's versatility, stating, "He has the ability to have an impact in all areas of our team’s game."
Burnett also praised Veccia's athleticism and experience, noting, "He is a strong skater with good skill and has valuable playoff experience to help our group moving forward." These attributes are precisely what the Storm are looking for as they aim to make a substantial push in the postseason.
The trades executed by the Guelph Storm demonstrate a calculated approach to team enhancement. With the addition of two promising young forwards and the shedding of future draft capital, the Storm are signaling to their fans and competitors alike that they are serious contenders for the OHL title this year. As the regular season winds down, all eyes will be on how well Crane and Veccia integrate into their new team and whether their presence on the ice translates into the playoff success the Storm are striving for.