Earlier today, the Brantford Bulldogs announced the acquisition of the second-overall pick in the 2025 CHL Import Draft from Peterborough in exchange for a 2026 second-round pick, a 2027 third-round pick, a 2028 third-round pick, and Brantford's second-round pick (111th overall) in the 2025 CHL Import Draft.

"We are thrilled to secure the second-overall pick in the 2025 Import Draft," said Bulldogs' GM Spencer Hyman, who is the brother of Edmonton Oilers' forward Zach Hyman. "This opportunity positions us to add an elite talent to our roster, and we are confident that this player will make an immediate impact on our team's success."

Brantford now has two first-round picks in the 2025 CHL Import Draft and will pick 2nd and 50th overall. They will no longer make a selection in round two. Historically, the team has done well in the import draft. St. Louis Blues prospect Adam Jiricek came to Brantford via the CHL Import Draft last season. 

This trade is particularly interesting, as it suggests Brantford is looking to bolster its lineup with experienced players from Europe. One of the General trends of the CHL Import Draft is that CHL teams acquire the rights to European players who have already been drafted into the NHL. This gives these players a place to develop while adjusting to North America and North American hockey, and makes the given CHL team stronger in the process.

However, CHL teams are only allowed to roster two import players. In Brantford's case, the 18-year-old Jiricek is eligible to return to the team next season, but the 2004-born Tomas Hamara has aged out. This leaves Brantford with one guaranteed free import slot to fill.

With two first-round picks in the 2025 CHL Import Draft, it seems Hyman has his eye on a particular player that he intends to plug into that spot. The second pick is much more interesting. It may be intended as a way to safeguard the possibility that Jiricek moves up to the NHL. Otherwise, whoever Hyman picks at 50th will have to wait at least a year before coming to Brantford. 

On the other end of the trade, Peterborough GM Michael Oke secured draft picks for his club. The 2026 second-round pick is particularly juicy as it presents the team with the option of continuing adding large amounts of young talent. However, Oke also has the option to trade away these picks in exchange for players, if he feels his team is ready to make a leap forward. 

"We are excited about the roster we are building for the upcoming season," said Oke. "This move falls in line with some exciting announcements that we will be making in the coming days and weeks as we continue to strengthen our team for this year and beyond."

The Petes continue to play a long game when it comes to their roster. Whether it will pay off remains to be seen. 

The 2025 CHL Import Draft will take place on July 2, at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time.