Busy trade day for Bowler

Windsor Spitfires general manager Bill Bowler has acquired defenceman Jacob Holmes from the Sudbury Wolves in exchange for five draft picks. “Jacob was the captain of his hockey club and is an NHL drafted player. We think his presence and character will help our group. He is a solid defender that can play in any situation.” said Bowler in a team release this afternoon.

The 19-year old was a first round pick of the Soo Greyhounds in 2019 and was traded at the deadline a year ago to Sudbury, along with left winger Marc Boudreau and a 2nd round pick, for captain Jack Thompson who is now playing in the AHL.

Holmes, who was drafted by the Dallas Stars in the 5th round of the 2021 NHL Draft, has 18 points in 32 games this season. “It’s something that I am very excited for, Windsor is a great organization.” Holmes said in a statement through the team. “They have a great team this year and I am looking forward to making a deep playoff run with the squad they have.” The 6'2 defenceman is expected to be in the lineup Wednesday night when the Spits host Saginaw. 7:05 puck drop.

Later in the afternoon Bowler picked up forward Brett Harrison from the Oshawa Generals for six draft picks. “Brett is an elite veteran player. Brett is a prolific scorer that will help our team on both sides of the puck.”

The 19-year old centerman has 16 goals and 33 points in 27 games this season and was drafted in the 3rd round of the 2021 NHL Draft by the Boston Bruins.

“It feels unbelievable, I am really excited to get down to Windsor.” Harrison said in a team statment. “I look forward to helping the team go on another run and getting over the hump and win the championship.”

The Dorchester, Ontario native won't be a total stranger to his new team having skated with Matthew Maggio and Colton Smith last summer. He also attended school with Jackson McIlwain.