The Sudbury Wolves have bolstered its blue line ahead of the team’s season opener on Friday.

On Wednesday, the Wolves announced a trade for Cole Candella.

The Wolves sent a second round pick in 2018, two third round picks (2018 and 2019) and a conditional third round pick in 2022 to the Hamilton Bulldogs, for Candella.

The 19-year-old is entering his fourth season in the OHL after being selected in the 2nd round, 23rd overall, by the Belleville Bulls in the 2014 OHL Priority Selection. Candela was also selected by the Vancouver Canucks in the 5th round, 140th overall in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft

“Cole is a player who was highly sought after as he is expected to be one of the top 19-year-old d-men in the league this season and he will have an immediate impact on the backend,” said Rob Papineau, Wolves GM and VP of Hockey Operations.

“He is an excellent skater and a strong puck moving defencemen who has a great shot. He is an NHL drafted player and we are very happy to add Cole and his experience to our hockey team.”

Candella picked up 20 points in 65 games last season with the Bulldogs.

“I have heard that there are lots of good things happening in Sudbury with the new coach and everything,” said Candella. “I’m excited to get up there, meet the boys and help the team have a great season.”

The Wolves open-up the 2017/18 regular season against the Oshawa Generals on Friday at 7:05pm.