Major trade sees Sabres prospect goalie Ryerson Leenders exchanged for numerous draft picks

The Brampton Bulldogs have made a significant trade, acquiring Buffalo Sabres' top goaltending prospect, Ryerson Leenders, from the Brampton Steelheads. In return, the Steelheads received a substantial package of future OHL draft picks, including three second-round picks, three third-round picks, as well as fourth and fifth-round selections in 2035 and 2037, respectively.

This trade marks a pivotal moment for both teams, with the Bulldogs aiming to strengthen their roster as they embark on their first season in Brampton after relocating from Mississauga. Leenders, 18, was selected in the seventh round of the 2024 NHL Entry Draft by the Buffalo Sabres. Last season, he recorded a 24-17-4 record with the Steelheads, establishing himself as one of the most promising young goaltenders in the league.

Alongside the trade of Leenders, the Steelheads announced the acquisition of goaltender Jacob Gibbons from the Erie Otters. Gibbons, who is eligible for the 2025 NHL Draft, was traded to the Steelheads in exchange for a 2025 fourth-round pick and a 2028 sixth-round pick. This move is part of the Steelheads' broader strategy to revamp their goaltending lineup following the departure of Leenders.

The Bulldogs' decision to trade for Leenders reflects their ambition to contend immediately in the OHL. The team has already made significant moves to bolster their roster, including the acquisition of Seattle Kraken prospect Carson Rehkopf, who tallied an impressive 52 goals and 95 points in 60 OHL games last season. Additionally, the Bulldogs added defenseman Spencer Sova, the former captain of the Erie Otters, to their ranks.

With Leenders' departure, the Steelheads are expected to lean on Jack Ivankovic, a highly touted prospect eligible for the 2025 NHL Draft. Ivankovic, who was a first-round pick by the Steelheads in 2023, played a crucial role in Canada's gold medal victory at the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup. His performance has cemented his status as a future star, and the Steelheads will likely rely on him to take on the leading goaltending role next season.

This trade underscores the Bulldogs' commitment to building a competitive team as they transition into their new home in Brampton. Meanwhile, the Steelheads are looking to the future, banking on the development of young talents like Ivankovic to carry the team forward.

Source: Hockey Patrol
Buffalo Sabres prospect goaltender Ryerson Leenders traded in blockbuster deal for multiple picks