The Ontario Reign announced the departure of forward Glenn Gawdin and goaltender Pheonix Copley during the recent free‑agency period, marking the end of a chapter for the club.
Gawdin, who recorded 113 points in 143 games for the Reign, signed a two‑year contract with the New York Rangers, bringing his offensive skill set to a franchise known for its depth at center.
Copley, a four‑year veteran of the Reign’s net, moved to the Columbus Blue Jackets after a crowded crease in Ontario left limited playing time.
Roster reshuffles ahead of new season
The Blue Jackets are expected to deploy Copley as a third‑string option, while his experience will also benefit the team’s AHL affiliate, the Cleveland Monsters.
To fill the void left by Gawdin, the Reign inked Lane Pederson, a versatile forward who brings a fresh spark to the lineup.
General manager Hampton Slukynsky and coaching staff, including Carter George, are optimistic that the new roster pieces will maintain competitiveness in the upcoming season.
The moves also highlight the broader network of talent flowing between the Reign, the Rangers, the Blue Jackets and their developmental clubs, illustrating how player development is increasingly interconnected across the AHL and NHL.