Hitmen trade Carson Wetsch to Kelowna on busy day of dealmaking

Calgary's Carson Wetsch is pictured during a game against Medicine Hat. (Photo: Twitter@WHLHitmen)

The Calgary Hitmen announced a couple of trades Wednesday, including the departure of forward Carson Wetsch.

Wetsch was dealt along with a conditional second-round draft pick in the 2028 Prospects Draft to Kelowna in exchange for defenceman Ben MacBeath, a first-round pick in 2027, a second-round pick in 2025 and a third-round pick in the 2025 WHL Prospects Draft.

Wetsch played 181 games with the Hitmen, scoring 68 goals and adding 56 assists since joining the club in the 2021 WHL Prospects Draft.

“We have seen Carson grow as a player and person as part of the Hitmen organization since he was 15 years old,” said Calgary Hitmen vice- president Mike Moore, in a media statement. “He has had a significant impact as a player and as the captain of our team. His dedication to the community over his tenure with us will leave a lasting impact on our organization.”

“Carson is a character person and player and has demonstrated this through his commitment and exemplary representation of the Hitmen organization,” added GM Garry Davidson.

MacBeath, who is from Calgary, played last season with the Salmon Arm Silverbacks of the BCHL, scoring four goals and adding 30 assists.

“Ben is the complete package with a high hockey IQ and great feet,” continued Davidson “He is coming off a great season in the BCHL and will be a welcomed addition to fill in our back end as a left-handed defenceman.”

The Hitmen also traded forward Chase Valliant and prospect Easton LaPlante to the Penticton Vees in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round pick.

The move completes Calgary’s requirements for the 2025 WHL Expansion Draft.

“With this trade we are fulfilling our requirements for the expansion draft with the Vees while also recouping a draft pick,” said Davidson. “This process involves giving up two quality hockey players and individuals. We wish Chase and Easton the best in Penticton.”

The first round of the 2025 WHL Prospects Draft started at 4 p.m. Wednesday.