Here Comes Brandon Maxwell

A very large trade occurred today in the Ontario Hockey League, one I felt was worth noting on this blog. The Windsor Spitfires have acquired the rights to goaltender Brandon Maxwell from the Erie Otters in exchange for 2010 draft eligible forward Andrew Yogan and a 2nd round draft pick.

For those that don't recognize the name, Brandon Maxwell is one of the top goaltenders eligible for the 2009 NHL entry draft. He was originally a 2nd round draft pick of the Otters in the 2007 Priority draft, but was bent on going the NCAA route with a commitment to Boston College.

Maxwell was the starter for Team USA at last year's Under 18's, where they captured the bronze medal. He was outstanding in the tournament. Maxwell was also outstanding with the NTDP last season as a 16 year old. However, he and the entire NTDP have not played well so far this season. Perhaps he's figuring that he can really enhance his NHL draft stock by playing net for such a strong Windsor team.

For those curious, here is a player profile from a great site called "Elite Prospects."
http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=17492

That is of course, assuming that he is going to now leave the NTDP to play for Windsor. But considering the amount Windsor gave up and the timing of the trade, one would have to think the Spits have a deal in place with Maxwell to join the team, I'm assuming immediately.

The implications that this trade could have are huge. For one, this could potentially make Windsor an even stronger team. Brandon Maxwell has the potential to enter the league as one of the best goalies in the OHL. But also, Maxwell is a 2009 draft eligible player, so he's now someone we're going to have to follow closely on this site.

I shall keep you updated...

Edit: We now have an official link to the trade...

http://www.ottershockey.com/news/2008/11/otters-acquire-yogan-from-windsor