Firebirds Acquire Five Draft Picks from Ottawa
January 6, 2024 - Ontario Hockey League (OHL)
Flint Firebirds News Release
FLINT, Mich. - The Flint Firebirds announced on Saturday that the team has acquired five draft choices from the Ottawa 67's in exchange for Braeden Kressler and two draft choices.
The Firebirds will receive the Soo Greyhounds' 2026 second round pick, their own 2024 third round pick, the Kitchener Rangers' 2024 third round pick, the London Knights' 2027 third round pick and Ottawa's 2025 ninth round pick. In addition to Kressler, Flint is sending the North Bay Battalion's 2024 third round pick and London's 2024 10th round pick to the 67's.
"Braeden has been a big part of our dressing room and the franchise ever since he arrived here nearly five years ago," Firebirds general manager Dave McParlan said. "We would like to thank him for what he has given to the organization, he'll always be a Firebird in our eyes."
Kressler has appeared in 33 games this season for the Firebirds and recorded 15 goals and 22 assists. Over 154 career games for Flint, he has 54 goals and 69 assists. The overage forward is in his final season of eligibility in the OHL. He was signed to an NHL entry-level contract by the Toronto Maple Leafs as an undrafted free agent in October of 2021.
"The high-end draft picks we acquired in this deal will help us stockpile our roster for both the short term and the future," McParlan said. "Although we hate to see Braeden go, we are happy with the assets we've received.
Flint will return to action on Saturday night at home against the Oshawa Generals. It's Firebirds Fight Hunger Weekend, sponsored by Dort Financial Credit Union, and any fan who donates a minimum of five nonperishable food items can receive a free ticket to the game. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. at the Dort Financial Center.
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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
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