Brantford Bulldogs traded defenseman Noah Van Vliet to the Sudbury Wolves in exchange for defenseman Owen Protz on Tuesday, January 9, 2024.
Besides Protz, the Bulldogs also received three draft selections, including a second round pick in 2026, and a second and third round pick in 2027.
Protz, an Ottawa product, has skated in 36 games in his rookie season with the Wolves scoring one goal and adding six assists while providing a dogged physical presence.
Originally, a fifth round selection, 86th overall in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection Draft, the 6’1”, 190lbs blueliner arrived in the OHL from the Ottawa Jr. Senators U18 AAA and played his 2022-23 season in the CCHL with the Ottawa Jr. Senators, skating in 66
games between the regular season and playoffs, collecting 23 points as a 16-year-old rookie.
“Owen is a player we had targeted in discussions and we are excited to add his character and skill to our group.” said Matt Turek, General Manager of the Brantford Bulldogs. “The Bulldogs would also like to thank Noah Van Vliet for his tremendous contributions. A true Bulldog, bringing heart and leadership that led him to be a captain respected among his teammates. Noah has a bright professional future ahead.”
