Flint makes another big trade to bolster their team for the 2024-25 OHL season

The Flint Firebirds wasted no time on the trade market after the OHL trade freeze was lifted on Tuesday, Jun.4. Firebirds GM Dave McParlan stomped his foot into the ground outlining what kind of direction his team will be heading towards for the 2024-25 season. His message is that they want to be contenders.

McParlan made a splash two days ago when he executed a blockbuster deal with the Sudbury Wolves, acquiring right winger Evan Konyen, defenseman Nolan Collins, and Los Angeles Kings defense prospect, Matthew Mania. The Wolves received a whopping nine draft picks in return for this deal.

Shortly after, the Firebirds made another trade picking up right winger Christopher Thibodeau from the Kingston Frontenacs in exchange for seven draft picks. 

In exchange for Thibodeau and a 2028 fourth-round pick, Kingston receives Flint’s second-round picks in 2027 and 2028, — the latter pick has a condition on it — third-round picks in 2028 and 2026, a couple of fifth-round selections in 2025 and 2027, and a 15th round choice in 2025. 

Flint recouped a load of draft picks during this year’s trade deadline when they shipped out star forwards Gavin Hayes and Braeden Kressler. The picks they received in those deals have helped them land their four new roster players.

Thibodeau is a well-seasoned veteran having played 185 games and completed his third season in the league. His points production has seen steady growth proceeding from nine in his rookie year, to 39 in 2022-23, and then 60 points this past season. The 5-foot-9 forward was a fourth-round draft choice by Kingston and is entering his first year of NHL Draft eligibility.

The dual American-Canadian citizen was ranked 151st by the NHL Central Scouting Bureau among North American Skaters. 

Although diminutive in size, he utilizes his speed and quick feet to make plays at high speeds and prolong possession for his team. His skillset is high and he should become a focal point in Flint’s offense next season. Thibodeau is also a strong two-way player who has a strong motor on the forecheck.

After back-to-back disappointing first-round exits, the Firebirds' re-tool is in full effect. Their defense core will be led by Matthew Mania, Nolan Collins, and Dallas Stars prospect, Tristan Bertucci. However, despite adding Konyen and Thibodeau, there is still work to be done amongst their top-six forward core.