SASKATOON – Head Coach and General Manager Bob Woods announced today that the Blades have acquired 1995-born defenceman Colton Waltz, and 1997-born forward Braylon Shmyr in exchange for Schael Higson, Mitch Wheaton, and a 2nd round pick in 2017.

“We had a wish list in mind for this year’s deadline and acquiring a top six forward of Shmyr’s calibre and a top-pairing, experienced defenceman like Colton were at the very top.” said Woods. “Both players will help our powerplay, make us deeper and we feel we are a stronger team today after our acquisitions.”

Waltz (pictured below), a 6’1”, 198lb, left shot defenceman from Vermillion, AB, has recorded 2 goals, 14 assists, and 47 penalty minutes in 34 games this season for the Wheat Kings.

“Colton has been one of the best all-around defenceman in our division the last several seasons.” said Managing Partner, Colin Priestner. “He is a proven leader and having a blueliner who was +39 with 32 points last year will help our young defence core in all situations.” he added.

Shmyr (pictured above), a Calgary native, is a former 1st round pick of the Wheat Kings, 12th overall in 2012. The 5’10”, 163lb left winger scored 18 goals, and 22 assists in 65 games for Brandon last year. He currently has 8 goals and 8 assists, and is a +18 in 23 games this season.

“Braylon is a very skilled, tenacious and smart forward who can play centre and left wing and he gives us a lot of options in our top 6.” said Priestner. “He was a first round draft pick and he will be a huge part of our team for the next several years.”

The Blades would like to thank Schael and Mitch for their hard work and dedication to the team during their tenures and wish them the best of luck in Brandon.