Fine-tuning

Trade deadline is Friday

The Wellington Dukes got off to a good start in 2025 with a solid win in Lindsay three days into the new year. The team also said farewell to a couple of players. Zach Carrier was traded to Cobourg, while Zach Mascard was dealt to the Markham Royals.

Coming to Wellington is Carson Littlejohn, a rangy 18-year-old defenceman. In 29 games in Haliburton this season, the six-foot, 210-pound blueliner notched 26 points.

With the OJHL deadline looming, the Dukes are expected to present a new face or two when they travel to Stouffville on Saturday night.

DUKES 5 – LINDSAY 3
The Dukes came out strong and never trailed in this road game in the Kawarthas. The Dukes mounted a 4-1 lead by the end of the second and added one on the third on goals from Logan Sitlani, Ryan Schaap, Sacha Trudel and a pair from Ethan Murray. Lindsay tallied a couple of late goals— 30 seconds apart—but the outcome was never in doubt. Jacob Brown went the distance in the Dukes’ net, turning away 26 shots.

LUMPY SCHEDULE
The Dukes have just four home games scheduled in January. Wellington will host Lindsay a week from today (Wednesday, Jan 15). Then, two more road games. Then, three games in Wellington over four days (Jan 23, 24 and 26).

In February, the Dukes will host seven home games—but only two are Friday night games.

UP NEXT: STOUFFVILLE
The Dukes head to Stouffville on Saturday night for the team’s lone game this week. The Spirit sits five points behind the Dukes in fifth spot in the East Conference. The Dukes won both previous encounters with the Spirit. Kyle Downey carries the bulk of the load in Stouffville’s net. He has amassed a decent record with a GAA of 2.57 and a save percentage of .905.