Guelph Storm Bolsters Offense with Key Trades Ahead of Playoffs
In a strategic move to fortify their lineup before the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) trade deadline, the Guelph Storm has executed a pair of trades that have brought in two promising 19-year-old forwards. The team's management made these acquisitions with a clear intent to enhance their offensive capabilities as they gear up for a playoff run.
Storm Acquires Brody Crane from Niagara Ice Dogs
The Guelph Storm's first move saw them securing the talents of forward Brody Crane from the Niagara Ice Dogs. In exchange for Crane, the Ice Dogs will receive a sixth-round pick in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection. Crane, who was initially selected by the London Knights in the fourth round of the 2020 OHL Priority Selection, has demonstrated his potential this season with three goals and six assists. His performance thus far indicates that he could be a valuable asset to the Storm's offense as they prepare for postseason competition.
Zander Veccia Joins the Storm from Mississauga Steelheads
The second trade involved the acquisition of Zander Veccia from the Mississauga Steelheads. Veccia's current season statistics boast eight goals and 21 assists, showcasing his scoring prowess and playmaking abilities. To secure Veccia, the Storm parted with several future draft picks, including a notable second-round selection in 2026. This decisive move underscores the Storm's commitment to immediate success and signals a shift towards a win-now mentality.
Juston DeZoete Departs for Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds
As part of their roster adjustments, the Storm also traded away Juston DeZoete to the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. The return for DeZoete is a 10th-round pick in the 2025 OHL Priority Selection. During his time with the Storm, DeZoete contributed two assists over 22 games. While his impact on the scoresheet may not have been substantial, such trades often provide players with new opportunities to thrive in different environments.
New Additions Set to Debut Against Greyhounds
The newly acquired duo of Crane and Veccia is slated to make their debut for the Guelph Storm in an upcoming game against the very team that DeZoete now calls home—the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. This matchup will not only serve as an introduction for the forwards to their new team but also as an early test of the chemistry they can bring to the Storm's offensive line.
Aiming for Playoff Success
With the playoffs on the horizon, the Guelph Storm is evidently preparing to make a deep run. By adding Crane and Veccia to their ranks, the team hopes to inject fresh talent and energy into their offense. These trades are a clear indication that the Storm is prioritizing immediate performance, potentially at the expense of long-term development given the future draft picks they have relinquished.
Management's Confidence in New Players
The Storm's head coach, Burnett, expressed confidence in the new additions. Speaking on Veccia's acquisition, Burnett noted, "Zander has made steady progression throughout his OHL career." He went on to praise 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 would contribute to the Storm's playoff ambitions: "He is a strong skater with good skill and has valuable playoff experience to help our group moving forward."
These remarks from Burnett underscore the multifaceted value that Veccia is expected to bring to the team—not just through his scoring touch but also through his overall gameplay and experience in high-pressure situations.
Conclusion
The Guelph Storm's recent trades reflect a strategic approach to bolstering their roster with skilled players who can contribute immediately. By acquiring Brody Crane and Zander Veccia, the Storm has signaled their determination to compete at a higher level as the OHL playoffs draw near. With these new forwards set to debut and the team's focus squarely on achieving playoff success, the Storm appears ready to face the challenges ahead with renewed vigor and enhanced offensive firepower.