Ben Gaudreau is dealt to the Erie Otters, while Nolan Lalonde is traded to the Saginaw Spirit in a three team trade.
On October 10th, 2023, one of the OHL’s top overage goaltenders was traded in a move that many people around the league anticipated. Ben Gaudreau was traded to the Erie Otters in a 3 team trade that also saw 2004-born goaltender Nolan Lalonde head to Saginaw, with a boatload of picks sent back to Sarnia.
Ben Gaudreau has been with the Sarnia Sting since his rookie year, back in 2019-2020. His numbers may not jump off the board, but his athleticism and agility are high-end.
Gaudreau caught many eyes with his outstanding performance for Canada at the U18’s in 2021. This tournament propelled him into the 2021 NHL Draft, where he was selected in the 3rd round by the San Jose Sharks. Gaudreau did not end up signing with the club after two seasons.Though, he still remains a top goalie in the OHL, and is likely looking for an NHL contract once the season concludes.
After former Spirit starting goaltender Tristan Lennox aged out of the league, Saginaw was left with Andrew Oke and Brett Fullerton manning the crease. Goaltending was certainly a priority, as the Spirit prepare for their Memorial Cup run. They picked up Nolan Lalonde in this trade, which certainly gives them depth in that position.
Lalonde is a goaltender that has been starting on a poor performing team for the last two seasons. Though the record doesn’t show it, Lalonde has saved many games for the Otters over the last two years. Lalonde was invited to Columbus Blue Jackets development and training camp in 2022, and was signed to an entry level deal as a free agent.
The Spirit will now run with Lalonde and Oke, two 2004 born goaltenders with experience. They will likely start by splitting the crease, but potentially one could run away with the starting position as the season continues.
The Sarnia Sting are now without their starting goaltender, and Nicholas Surzycia and Karsen Chartier will take over. In return, they acquired 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th round picks. The Sting are projected to be a rebuilding squad, and this trade allows their young goaltenders to gain some experience in preparation for next season.