PHANTOMS ACQUIRE WHITERABBIT FROM WATERLOO PHANTOMS ADD TO BLUE LINE AS USA HOCKEY TRADE DEADLINE APPROACHES

YOUNGSTOWN, OHIO –The Youngstown Phantoms have acquired defenseman Ryan Whiterabbit and a 2026 Phase I ninth‑round pick from the Waterloo Black Hawks in exchange for four draft picks and future considerations.

 

Whiterabbit, a 2007-born left-shot defenseman from Mahtomedi, Minnesota, has recorded four goals and 20 points in 57 career USHL games. He was a member of last season’s Waterloo team that came within one goal of defeating Muskegon in the 2025 Clark Cup Final. Whiterabbit is committed to Augustana University following the conclusion of his USHL career.

 

“We’re very excited to add Ryan to our group,” Phantoms co-general manager Jason Deskins said. “He’s a defenseman with strong offensive instincts — a player who sees the ice well, moves pucks quickly, and isn’t afraid to assert himself offensively. His skating and decision-making allow him to impact the game at both ends, and we believe his upside is significant as he continues to develop.”

 

Heading back to Waterloo in the trade are a 2026 Phase I fifth‑round selection, a 2026 Phase II second‑round selection, a 2027 Phase II fifth‑round selection, and a 2027 Phase I third‑round selection. The Phantoms thank the Waterloo Black Hawks organization for their cooperation and professionalism throughout the transaction and welcome Ryan and his family to Youngstown.

 

Whiterabbit is expected to be in the lineup this weekend as the Phantoms travel to face the Lincoln Stars. Youngstown returns home next weekend for a three‑in‑three series against the Muskegon Lumberjacks.

 

Season and single-game tickets are available by calling the Phantoms box office at 330-747-PUCK (7825).