NHL Trade Deadline Day Overview
In a somewhat uneventful NHL Trade Deadline Day, the Ottawa Senators did manage to execute a notable minor-league transaction shortly after the deadline. The team announced a trade with the Washington Capitals, bringing in forward Graeme Clarke, who has strong connections to the Ottawa area.
Graeme Clarke’s Background
Having grown up in the city, Clarke played three seasons with the Ottawa 67’s in the OHL before stepping into professional hockey. He was originally picked in the third round of the 2019 NHL Draft by the New Jersey Devils (80th overall) and has played in a handful of NHL games. His AHL tenure has spanned various teams including Hershey, Binghamton, Utica, and Iowa.
Trade Details
In exchange for Clarke, the Senators sent Wyatt Bongiovanni to the Capitals. Bongiovanni was recognized as the leading goal scorer for the Belleville Senators last season.
Clarke’s Achievements
Clarke was a significant part of the Ottawa 67’s squad, which had hopes of competing for the Memorial Cup until the COVID-19 pandemic interrupted their playoff run. He also represented Canada at the prestigious 2018 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, contributing three points in five games and earning a gold medal.
Family Background
Notably, Clarke comes from a family with a strong hockey background; his younger brother Brandt plays defense for the LA Kings, and his sister MacKenzie is a defense player for the women’s team at St. Lawrence University.
Upcoming Debut
As for his debut with the Belleville Senators, it is expected that he will take the ice this coming Saturday when they face off against the Comets at CAA Arena.
