The Kitchener Rangers have made another big trade.
The team has acquired forward Danny Zhilkin from the Guelph Storm. Kitchener also receives Guelph's eighth-round pick in the 2025 draft.
In return, the Rangers traded forward Jesse Fishman to Guelph, along with six draft picks, including Barrie's second-round selection in the 2023 draft, Hamilton's fourth-round pick in the 2023 draft, as well as Kitchener's third-round pick in both 2025 and 2026.
Zhilkin, who is 19, recently signed a three-year entry level deal with the NHL's Winnipeg Jets.
He has 12 goals and 14 assists in 25 games so far this season. Zhilkin is also second in the league in face-off winning percentage, winning almost 60 per cent of his draws.
“Danny is a player we targeted when we made the decision to add to our team,” Kitchener Rangers General Manager Mike McKenzie said in a news release. “His two-way play, speed and skill will be a huge addition to our team in the second half.”
Zhilkin will join the Rangers for practice Tuesday, and is expected to be in the line-up when Kitchener plays in Sault Ste. Marie on Wednesday.
“I’m super excited. Obviously it’s a great franchise and I’ve heard a lot about it,” said Zhilkin. “Being there at the CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game last spring, I’ve seen the facilities and they’re top notch, so I’m excited to be a Ranger. We’re going to achieve something special here.”
Kitchener also recently acquired forward Francesco Arcuri from Kingston and defenceman Lleyton Moore from Oshawa.
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