The Humboldt Broncos and Weyburn Red Wings struck a mid week trade which will send a local forward, and former first round SJHL pick heading back home.
The Broncos acquired LeRoy, SK native Connor McGrath (03’) along with the rights to Kyle Bailey (01′) in exchange for Player Development Fees . McGrath played his minor hockey in Humboldt, with LeRoy just a 30 minute drive away.
McGrath was Weyburn’s 6th overall pick in the 2018 SJHL Bantam Draft. He suited up for three games with the Red Wings as a 16-year-old rookie in 2019/20, picking up one assist. The following year, in what would have been his first full SJHL season, McGrath tallied his first career goal while suiting up for four games before the season was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We are really excited to acquire Connor. It’s especially exciting for our team, our fan base, and our community when we can welcome in a local product as well. Connor has a high offensive ceiling. We feel he can play in our top six forwards this upcoming season.” – Broncos’ Head Coach and GM, Scott Barney.
Prior to joining the SJHL full time, McGrath was a member of the U18 AAA Moose Jaw Warriors, culminating with 49 points (23g, 26a) in 44 games in 2019/20.
Bailey got a brief taste of SJHL hockey in the shortened 2020/21 season, where he picked up one goal in four career games with the Red Wings. Prior to making the trip out east, the Calgary, AB product added 30 points (16g, 14a) in 24 games with the Grand Forks Border Bruins of the KIJHL.
The Humboldt Broncos and Weyburn Red Wings are getting prepared for the 2021/22 SJHL season with training camp scheduled to start in late August.
