Hurricanes swing deal with Brandon for Pilon

Press Release

Lethbridge, AB – The Lethbridge Hurricanes have found a home for Defenceman Ryan Pilon, sending him to Brandon for Defenceman Nick Walters, Taylor Cooper and Prospect Tanner Browne.

Pilon, who was the Lethbridge Hurricanes top pick (3rd overall) in the 2011 Bantam Draft requested a trade nearly two weeks ago and has been home, waiting to be dealt. As part of the trade Lethbridge also sends Colt Conrad to Brandon and if he signs, the Hurricanes will also receive a conditional 5th round pick in 2016.

The 6’2, 202 pound Walters is in his 4th season in the WHL and in has played 195 career games with both the Wheat Kings and Everett registering 43 points (7G, 36). Cooper, a 6’0, 186 pound Left Winger is in his second season with Brandon and has 10 points, including 7 goals in 23 games this season. Lethbridge Hurricanes General Manager, Brad Robson says “both are character guys that will be solid additions to our lineup.”  Robson added “Walters is big and steady on the backend. He’ll be key in helping our defence limit our opponent’s shots and scoring chances while Cooper, who is in just his second season, will fit in to the systems we’re trying to teach and give us some secondary scoring.” Browne was Brandon’s 2nd round (35th overall) pick in the 2012 draft and at the time was recognized for his size, physical play and skating ability. The 6-foot, 198 pound Defenceman from Kelowna plays for the Okanagan Rockets in the BC Major Midget Hockey League and in 14 games has 8 points this season.

Both Walters and Cooper are expected to join the Hurricanes this weekend and practice with the team on Monday.

(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)