A first-round pick from the 2024 NHL draft could be Penticton-bound.
The Vees' WHL franchise this week selected forward Trevor Connelly from Spokane Chiefs' 50-player protected list. The U.S.-based club was excluded from the original WHL expansion draft on May 7, due to its participation in an ongoing playoff series.
Connelly, 19, is considered the Vegas Golden Knights' top prospect. The Tustin, Calif., native was selected 19th overall in the 2024 NHL draft and has since signed an entry-level contract with the team.
The 6'1", 175-pound winger most recently suited up for the Henderson Silver Knights, Vegas's American Hockey League affiliate.
Connelly also helped Team USA win its second consecutive gold medal at the World Junior Hockey Championships, where he recorded four points in seven games this past winter.
In another roster move this week, the Vees acquired the playing rights to forward Malachi McKinnon from the Tri-City Americans in exchange for a conditional fourth-round pick in the 2029 WHL Prospects Draft.
The Minnesota-born McKinnon, 18, spent parts of last season suiting up for the Sherwood Park Crusaders in the BCHL.
Penticton's WHL franchise will begin its inaugural season this September, where it will play at the 5,000-seat South Okanagan Events Centre as part of the league's Western Conference.
