The London Knights and the Kitchener Rangers have finalized a significant trade that is set to reshape their rosters. This deal marks a rare collaboration between the two rivals, known for their fierce competition. The Knights have traded two of their standout players, both accomplished in major junior hockey, for a collection of promising prospects and draft selections.
Trade Details
The Knights traded Sam O’Reilly, their captain and Tampa Bay Lightning prospect, along with defenseman Jared Woolley, who is also a Los Angeles Kings prospect. In return, they received:
- 17-year-old defenseman Jacob Xu
- Forward Kane Barch, selected 22nd overall by Kitchener in 2025
- A total of 11 future draft picks
Breakdown of Draft Picks
The future draft picks acquired by the Knights are notably abundant and varied:
- 2 second-round picks
- 2 third-round picks
- 2 fourth-round picks
- 2 fifth-round picks
- 2 sixth-round picks
- 1 15th-round pick
Player Backgrounds
Jacob Xu joined the Rangers as a 16-year-old at the conclusion of the 2024-25 season. He has already made an impact by playing in 13 playoff games and has been recognized on NHL Central Scouting’s Players to Watch List for the upcoming 2026 NHL Entry Draft. Xu has committed to play at Harvard University.
Kane Barch is currently with the U.S. National Team Development Program. As a promising 16-year-old, he has the lineage of a hockey family, with his father, Krys Barch, having played for the Knights and enjoyed a professional career in the NHL. Krys is now the head coach of the Niagara Ice Dogs in the OHL.
Jared Woolley has been instrumental in the Knights’ past successes, contributing to two OHL titles and a Memorial Cup during his tenure. Drafted by the Kings in 2024, he remains a key player for the Knights.
Sam O’Reilly recently returned from the world junior hockey championship, where he was recognized as one of Canada’s top players at the tournament. Having taken over as captain of the Knights earlier in the year, O’Reilly’s leadership and skills will be missed.
Historical Context
This trade draws parallels to a notable transaction in 2008 when the Knights acquired Steve Tarasuk and Phil Varone for goaltender Steve Mason shortly after the world junior championship. Such trades between these two teams are infrequent, making this announcement particularly significant.
Next, the London Knights are set to face the Brantford Bulldogs in their upcoming game at Canada Life Place, scheduled for Friday at 7 p.m.
