Tri-City Americans Americans Acquire Charlie Elick From The Brandon Wheat Kings

The blockbusters keep coming in the WHL, as the Tri-City Americans and Brandon Wheat Kings made a massive deal. The Americans acquired Columbus Blue Jackets defensive prospect Charlie Elick and a 2026 third-round pick in exchange for 2025 NHL Draft forward prospect Jordan Gavin and defenceman Merrek Arpin. This was the ninth trade in the WHL today, as teams loaded up before the 2025 trade deadline on Thursday.

Elick, who was a second-round pick of the Blue Jackets in 2024, brings some extra stability to Tri-City's blue line. In 33 games this season, he has seven points and has played a crucial role on Brandon's penalty kill. Elick brings 163 games of WHL experience and has also represented Canada at multiple tournaments throughout his career.

As for Gavin, he is projected to be a second-round selection in the 2025 NHL Draft. The 18-year-old has 14 goals and 30 points in 35 games and recently recorded his 150th career WHL point. Gavin should help boost the Wheat Kings' scoring and also help on the power play.

Lastly, Arpin returns home to Manitoba. The 18-year-old defender has spent his entire WHL career with the Americans, posting 12 points in 99 games. Listed at 6'4", 205lbs, Arpin should help add some extra physicality to Brandon's roster.

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