The trade of Pat Kavanagh to the Outlaws signifies a new beginning for both parties involved.

In a significant development, the Boston Cannons have traded the sixth overall pick in the 2024 draft, Pat Kavanagh, to the Denver Outlaws. In return, the Cannons received the third overall pick in the 2025 College Draft along with a second-round selection in 2026. This trade was made to better align Kavanagh's playing style with a more suitable offensive system.

“I could sense that he was not performing at his best,” remarked Cannons head coach Brian Holman. “Last season was challenging for him due to injuries and necessary adjustments. I inquired, ‘What can I do to support you here?’”

After experiencing a fluctuating rookie season, Kavanagh indicated a desire to return to his preferred position at attack for the 2025 season. However, with two-time first-team All-Pro Asher Nolting occupying the X position for Boston over the past two years, the arrangement was not ideal. After thorough deliberation, both sides concluded that a new beginning elsewhere would offer Kavanagh the opportunity he sought while simultaneously enhancing the Cannons' prospects for the future. “I informed Pat, ‘If I do not receive what I consider fair value in return, I will not trade you merely for the sake of trading,’” Holman stated. “Ultimately, we arrived at a deal that left all parties satisfied.”

An equitable agreement for all parties involved.

The young attackman expressed to his coach his desire to join either the Outlaws or the California Redwoods, as both teams were in need of a franchise X attackman. Holman took Kavanagh’s aspirations seriously, dedicating several weeks to negotiate a trade that would not only fulfill the wishes of the Teewaraton Award winner but also ensure a fair return for the Cannons. Ultimately, it was head coach Tim Soudan and the Outlaws who aligned with Holman and the Cannons’ objectives. “It was an offer we simply could not ignore,” Soudan remarked to Outlaws beat writer Topher Adams. “We are genuinely thrilled to acquire a player with such an exceptional work ethic and competitive spirit,” Soudan added. “His dedication during competition is unparalleled.” The trade proves advantageous for both Boston and Kavanagh, as the Cannons now possess three selections within the top 12 of the forthcoming 2025 College Draft, including the third and fourth overall picks, positioning them favorably to attract significant new talent.

Whats to come in the future

The additional selections will enable the Cannons to adopt a long-term strategy, a privilege that Holman does not intend to overlook. "In the next two years, we will possess six picks among the top 15 or 16 players," Holman stated. "If I execute my responsibilities effectively, this positions us for enduring success." Although the team's draft strategy remains unchanged, the Cannons are now well-equipped to make deliberate choices. "We are seeking players who will excel within the culture we are cultivating here," Holman highlighted. "For us, this trade was not solely about fulfilling Pat's request, but also about securing the future strength of our roster."

Through this trade, the Cannons have acquired future flexibility while respecting Kavanagh's wish to assume a role that aligns with his strengths. For both parties, this represents a new beginning and an opportunity for development—one that could influence the Cannons' roster for upcoming seasons. "Pat is satisfied, the Outlaws are pleased, and we are content with what we received in return," Holman remarked.