In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the Ontario Hockey League, the North Bay Battalion has secured a major trade with the Barrie Colts. Sources confirm that forwards Anthony Romani and Owen Van Steensel are leaving North Bay, heading to Barrie in exchange for experienced forward Zach Wigle, promising rookie Parker Vaughan, and several draft picks.

This trade marks a strategic reunion for the Barrie Colts, rekindling last season's dominant line as Romani and Van Steensel join their former teammate, Dalyn Wakely. This trio is expected to amp up Barrie's offense significantly as they pursue a championship.

Anthony Romani's recent season has been marred by injury, having suffered a clavicle fracture just earlier this season after a promising start with two goals and three assists over six games. Although he has begun practicing again, he has yet to make his return to the ice, marking the first half of the 2024-25 season a near-total loss for the talented forward.

Despite these setbacks, Romani had an impressive previous season, netting 58 goals and finishing with 111 points, which caught the attention of the Vancouver Canucks, who drafted him. His potential was also recognized with an invitation to Canada’s World Junior Evaluation camp this summer, highlighting the high expectations set for him.

On the other hand, Owen Van Steensel steps into this transition as Battalion captain, showcasing consistent play with 13 goals and 13 assists in 36 games this season. Last year, his offensive prowess alongside Romani and Wakely produced 86 points, making him a valuable asset for any team.

For North Bay, this trade brings in Parker Vaughan, a highly skilled forward drafted 5th overall in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection, who has made his presence felt early in his career with seven points in just 32 games played this season.

The Battalion's management team of Adam Dennis and John Winstanley is seizing the moment: they now possess three first-round picks for the upcoming 2024-25 season. In addition to Vaughan, they also hold Ryder Carey, selected 16th overall, and Ryder Cali, the 18th overall pick. Cali, initially with the OJHL's Milton Menace, is expected to bolster the Battalion mid-season before joining full-time in the 2025-26 campaign after his NCAA commitments at Harvard.

On the flip side, Barrie welcomes Zach Wigle, a seasoned forward who has established his reputation within the Colts, currently posting 22 points with six goals and 16 assists over 36 games this season. The 6'0", 192 lb. Oakville native has solidified his playing credentials since his selection in the 9th round of the 2020 draft and has recently committed to play NCAA Division I hockey at the Rochester Institute of Technology next season, demonstrating his ambition beyond junior hockey.

This latest trade undoubtedly reshapes the dynamics of the OHL, setting the stage for thrilling competition as teams prepare for the rest of the season.