The Guelph Storm addressed it's blueline needs for this season and likely next season as well on Tuesday.
The Storm acquired 19-year-old Tommy Budnick from the Kingston Frontenacs. In exchange the Storm sends three draft picks the other way: a second round pick (originally Sarnia's) in 2026, a third round pick (originally Kitchener's) in 2026 and a third round pick in 2027.
“Tommy plays the game hard, responsibly and is a strong competitor at both ends of the rink,” said Storm GM George Burnett in a news release. “His ability to skate and move the puck effectively combined with his leadership will be a welcome addition to our group.”
Budnicki was originally a third round pick of Kingston and has spent his entire OHL career there. He is undrafted in the NHL and a potential overage candidate for Guelph next season.
In his draft year the Petoski, MI, native played in the Detroit Honeybaked system where he was a teammate of current Storm forward Max Namestnikov.
In three seasons in the OHL, all with the Frontenacs, the 6-foot-1, 190-pound defender has recorded 47 points (six goals, 41 assists) and 154 penalty minutes in 153 regular season games. In 29 games so far this season, Budnick has one goal, 10 assists, and is plus-9 with 34 PIMs.
The Storm plays in Owen Sound on Wednesday.
