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The Chicago Red Stars needed a new goal scorer after losing Sam Kerr to Chelsea during the off season, and now they have one.
The team announced today they’ve acquired forward Kealia Ohai from the Houston Dash. In exchange, Houston receives the 18th overall pick in next week’s NWSL College Draft, and defender Katie Naughton.
The Red Stars got that 18th selection—along with the 9th—from North Carolina Courage, in exchange for their sixth selection.
“Any team in the league would jump at the opportunity to add Kealia to their roster,” Red Stars Head Coach Rory Dames told the team’s website. “She has proven her ability to score at this level and we are excited to get her integrated into our group. We look forward to having her here in Chicago.”
Very proud of you and excited for you!!
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) January 6, 2020
I’ll hold it down here, you dominate in Chicago!
❤️ https://t.co/2nXTDhRJ3K
Ohai had 11 goals in 10 games in 2016, and finished tied for the NWSL Golden Boot. Since then, she’s struggled with injuries, but has shown flashes of her old form.
Naughton finishes her Red Stars career with 88 appearances. She made 24 appearances—including 19 starts—last season.