As the Canadian National Pickleball League (CNPL) advances into the last half of the second season, two teams looking to improve their standings have completed a significant trade. The West Coast Wolverines and the Vancouver Rush have agreed to exchange players in a bid to bolster their rosters and turn their fortunes around.

The Rush, currently languishing at the bottom of the standings with a 3-15 record, are sending their 3rd round pick Joe Willemsen and their 6th round pick Ava Weeks to the Wolverines. Joe, who made an appearance for the Rush at the Eastern Split in Mississauga, posted a mixed performance with 4 wins out of 9 games in the open division and 2 wins out of 9 in mixed. Ava, participating in the Central Split, showcased a promising start in the women’s division with 3 wins out of 4 games, though she struggled in mixed with just 1 win out of 4 games.

In exchange, the Wolverines, who are currently 6th in the standings with an 8-10 record, will send their 3rd round pick Sabrina Lam and their 6th round pick Jonas Dähler to the Rush. Jonas has been a standout performer for the Wolverines, boasting the second highest win percentage in open division games with an impressive 8-2 record, though he has faced challenges in mixed, securing 4 wins out of 10 games. Sabrina, a key player for the Wolverines, has been heavily featured this season, tallying 6 wins and 9 losses in the women’s division and 7 wins and 8 losses in mixed.

This trade represents a strategic move for both teams. The Wolverines aim to strengthen their depth and versatility with the addition of Joe and Ava, hoping to climb the standings and secure a playoff spot. Meanwhile, the Rush are betting on the proven track records of Jonas and Sabrina to rejuvenate their squad and spark a turnaround in their disappointing season.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on how these new acquisitions perform and whether this trade will be the catalyst for a successful campaign for either team.