Brantford Bulldogs acquired overage import defenseman Daniil Sobolev from the Niagara IceDogs in exchange for forward Masen Wray and defenseman Callum Cheynowski on Tuesday, January 9, 2024.
Sobolev, originally from St. Petersburg, Russia, was selected 40th overall in the 2020 CHL Import Draft by the Windsor Spitfires. Going on to play 110 games for Windsor, Sobolev was part of the 2022 Western Conference Champions that challenged the Bulldogs for the 2022 OHL Championship.
Drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in the 5th round, 142nd overall, in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft, the right shot defenseman blends a hard-nosed style of game with slick skating. Sobolev has posted two goals and nine assists for 11 points in 33 games for the IceDogs this season.
Wray and Cheynowski were drafted with back to back Bulldogs selections in the third round of the 2022 OHL Priority Selection draft, 49th (Wray) and 63rd (Cheynowski).
Wray, the North Bay product, broke camp with the Bulldogs for the 2022-23 season having skated in 88 games and recording 13 points in his season and a half with the Bulldogs.
Cheynowski, from Welland, starred at the GOJHL level in 2022-23 being named an all-star with the Thorold Blackhawks while breaking into the OHL. In his season and a half with the Bulldogs, Cheynowski skated in 43 games while posting 12 points.
“We are excited to add Daniil’s experience and tenacious style of play to our group in Brantford” said Matt Turek, General Manager of the Brantford Bulldogs.. “Over the past few seasons we’ve seen a lot of Daniil and he brings a skill set we feel will really compliment our team. I’d also like to thank Masen and Callum, two excellent young men, and wish them the best in their new opportunity in Niagara.”
