The Sarnia Sting are adding some more depth up front.
The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) club has acquired the playing rights to 2007-born right winger Matthew Manza from the Kingston Frontenacs.
In exchange, the Sting sent a 10th round pick in 2027, and conditional 4th round picks in 2027 and 2028.
Manza, who has committed to playing for Ohio State University, was a 9th round pick of the Frontenacs in 2023.
The Mississauga-native spent the 2023-24 season with the Ontario Junior Hockey League’s Toronto Patriots where he tallied 26 goals and 23 assists through 49 games played.
He earned recognition as the OJHL’s Rookie of the Year, a nomination to the OJHL’s First Prospect Team, as well as the Canadian Junior Hockey League’s Top Rookie honours.
This season Manza has suited up in 12 games for the Chilliwack Chiefs of the BCHL, recording two goals and four assists.
Sting General Manager Dylan Seca said they're working to finalize his paperwork for an arrival in Sarnia shortly.
"Matthew is a skilled winger with a knack for scoring," said Seca. "He has an Ohio State commitment and is a player we really liked in his OHL draft. The rule change allows for us to work with Kingston on acquiring his playing rights."
The OHL's trade deadline is coming up Friday, January 10 at noon.