Hurricanes acquire Josh Derko and 3rd Round Pick from Broncos for Jay Merkley

[HordiBrusk29]

Swift Current Broncos General Manager and Head Coach, Mark Lamb, has announced that the club has acquired 17-year-old forward Jay Merkley from the Lethbridge Hurricanes in exchange for 19-year-old forward Josh Derko and a 3rd round pick in the 2014 WHL Bantam Draft.

Merkley has recorded 22 points (14G,8A) in 44 games played with the Lethbridge Hurricanes so far this season. Last season, the 5’11”, 187-pound product of Calgary, AB tallied 12 goals and 11 assists in 58 games played in his rookie season with the Hurricanes. He was selected 3rd overall by Lethbridge in the 2010 WHL Bantam Draft.

“He is a highly-touted, right-handed shot who has shown he can score,” says General Manager & Head Coach, Mark Lamb. “His strong offensive skill will be a perfect fit for our team moving forward and we are excited to have him join us.”

Derko has recorded 11 points (3G,8A) in 31 games played with the Broncos this season. Last season, the 6’2”, 196-pound Sherwood Park, AB native tallied nine goals, four assists and 100 penalty minutes in 63 games played. He was selected by the Broncos in the 5th round, 100th overall of the 2008 WHL Bantam Draft.

“He’s a solid, popular player that has improved every year,” states General Manager & Head Coach, Mark Lamb. “He is the type of player every team wants and needs. He brings his passion for the game both on and off the ice every day and will be missed.”

The Swift Current Broncos Hockey Club would like to thank Josh for his countless contributions to the organization and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.

Merkley is expected to be in the Broncos line up for Wednesday night’s game against the Red Deer Rebels.

[HordiBrusk29]

I can see why the Broncos pulled the trigger on this deal. Lethbridge gave up way too much. I can only assume Merkley asked for a trade. Otherwise Rich Preston clearly wasn't thinking straight. Then again if he asked for a trade it's hard to imagine no other team in the league would offer more than Derko and a 3rd rounder.

[dodywood4ever]

Gonna miss Derko in Swift. Always first guy on ice to step in for a team-mate. Can throw em.

[HordiBrusk29]

I meant no disrespect to Derko, as I respect and appreciate the way the guy plays the game. Lethbridge needed some grit and toughness heading into the playoffs and Derko will provide that. The Canes just paid a pretty hefty price tag, IMO.