Rangers Add Firepower and Depth

Blockbuster Deal Sends Merrett to Mariners, Rangers Add Firepower and Depth

The Manotick Mariners and South Grenville Rangers have completed a major trade that is sure to send ripples through the NPHL, particularly in the tightly contested Eastern Conference. The deal sees top-four defenseman Nathan Merrett & cash heading to Manotick, while South Grenville receives a trio of impactful players in return—forward Jonathan Desbiens, defenseman David Chevrier, and veteran Sean Murphy.

Manotick Acquires: Nathan Marrett (D)

A true top-pairing blueliner, Merrett brings a mix of smooth puck movement, defensive reliability, and offensive upside. He tallied 14 points in 16 games last season with South Grenville, often quarterbacking the powerplay and generating breakouts with his crisp outlet passes.

With this acquisition, the Mariners add a critical piece to their blue line—a defenseman who can log big minutes, stabilize the back end, and jump-start transition plays. Merrett fits seamlessly into Manotick’s top-four rotation, and his presence should pay immediate dividends in what promises to be a physical and fast-paced season.

South Grenville Receives:

Jonathan Desbiens (F)

An offensive dynamo, Desbiens racked up 21 points in just 15 games last season. He’ll instantly become one of the most dangerous forwards on the Rangers roster and a likely powerplay fixture. Desbiens brings creativity, speed, and finishing ability—exactly what South Grenville has been lacking in the offensive zone.

David Chevrier (D)

Chevrier is a quietly effective defenseman who posted 9 points in 11 games last year. While not as high-profile as Merrett, he has the tools to take on more responsibility and could surprise fans with his two-way game. He’s expected to slot into South Grenville’s top four and help stabilize the group in Merretts absence.

Sean Murphy (F)

Murphy, a league veteran who’s been active since 2019, adds experience and depth to the Rangers’ forward corps. With 2 points in 4 games last season. SGR will be Murphy’s fourth NPHL team, and his versatility makes him a valuable piece in a long season.

🔍 A Win-Win Trade

For Manotick, this deal is about pushing their defense over the top in pursuit of playoff success. For South Grenville, it’s about depth, balance, and immediate offensive reinforcement. With three new pieces, including a top-line forward, the Rangers are making it clear they won’t sit idly by in a conference where scoring is king.

This is a bold offseason move for both franchises and a sign of the increasingly aggressive strategies playing out across the NPHL. If there’s one takeaway here, it’s that South Grenville isn’t done yet—and the rest of the East should take notice, free agency looms June 1st.

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