Tigers acquire Holberton from Seattle in draft-day deal

The Medicine Hat Tigers and Seattle Thunderbirds have struck a draft-day deal for the second time in the last three seasons.

The Tabbies acquired 2007-born forward Brayden Holberton and a 2026 fifth-round pick from the Thunderbirds in exchange for 2008-born forward Luke Puchner, a 2026 seventh-round pick, and a conditional 2029 third-round pick.

Holberton had 11 points through 63 games for Seattle this season, along with 132 penalty minutes.

Puchner played for Shattuck St. Mary’s U18 Prep team and put up 85 points over 53 games. Puchner is committed to the University of Minnesota-Duluth for the 2027-28 season.