The Saginaw Spirit have acquired Ethan Hay and a sixth round pick from the Flint Firebirds in exchange for six draft picks, including two second-rounders.
Tampa Bay Lightning 7th round pick Ethan Hay has been traded to the Saginaw Spirit in exchange for six draft picks.
Ethan Hay played two full seasons with the Flint Firebirds, who are off to a poor start this season. This is a sufficient package to receive in return for Hay, especially for a team that is likely beginning to rebuild. This creates a large hole in their lineup for the season ahead, but will give more of their younger guys an opportunity to play.
Hay joins the Memorial Cup hosts, where he will be a huge addition to their centre depth. He will likely slot in their middle six and be a penalty kill asset.
Hay fills a much-needed role for the Spirit, as a reliable two-way centre and a phenomenal penalty killer. His ability to take care of his own end and consistently play the right way is what made him an NHL Draft pick. The Spirit are a highly offensive team, and Hay will help balance out their offense with his defense-first mindset.
Hay leaves the Firebirds to join the state-rival, Saginaw Spirit. He will play against his old team several times this season, and look to help lead this team to a successful playoff and Memorial Cup run.
The Spirit aren't off to a fantastic start, but with their high-end talent, their record should continue to improve. This won't be the last move that Saginaw makes before the trade deadline, as they continue to bolster the lineup for their Memorial Cup run.
