Less than three weeks after the Montreal Victoire clinched the franchise’s inaugural Walter Cup victory, the PWHL landscape has undergone significant changes with the introduction of four new expansion teams in Hamilton, Detroit, Las Vegas, and San Jose. These expansion teams have each signed five players in the past week, marking the beginning of the league’s transition to a 12-team setup.
The recent signings have laid the groundwork for the expansion teams, leading to a substantial transformation in the roster compositions of existing PWHL teams. As the league gears up for the third phase of expansion starting this Wednesday, all teams are looking to address roster gaps and strategic enhancements. Expansion teams are allowed to secure up to three additional players, while existing teams have the opportunity to protect three more players.
Let’s delve into the initial roster compositions of the four new PWHL teams and glean insights from the first five signings.
**PWHL Hamilton**
– **Players signed:** Brianne Jenner (F), Emily Clark (F), Alina Müller (F), Nicole Gosling (D), Kayle Osborne (G)
Hamilton GM Meghan Duggan appears to be assembling a team that mirrors the pace and tenacity of the Boston Fleet, her former team led by coach Kris Sparre. Noteworthy signings include Brianne Jenner, a dynamic forward with a proven track record of elevating team performance both on and off the ice. Emily Clark and Alina Müller bring additional depth and skill to the forward lines, while Nicole Gosling and Kayle Osborne bolster the defensive and goaltending units, respectively.
**PWHL Detroit**
– **Players signed:** Daryl Watts (F), Hannah Bilka (F), Jesse Compher (F), Britta Curl-Salemme (F), Cayla Barnes (D)
Detroit has secured standout forward Daryl Watts, a prolific goal scorer second only to Marie-Philip Poulin since the league’s inception. Watts’ decision to join Detroit on a lucrative contract signifies a significant coup for the team. The roster is further strengthened by talented players like Hannah Bilka, Jesse Compher, Britta Curl-Salemme, and Cayla Barnes, each bringing unique skills and experience to the team.
**PWHL San Jose**
– **Players signed:** Kristin O’Neill (F), Anne Cherkowski (F), Maddi Wheeler (F), Rory Guilday (D), Corinne Schroeder (G)
San Jose’s lineup is anchored by Kristin O’Neill, a seasoned forward known for her gritty play and versatility. With a focus on growth and development, GM Troy Ryan sees O’Neill as a key player who can evolve into a more prominent offensive role. The team’s roster also features promising talents like Anne Cherkowski, Maddi Wheeler, Rory Guilday, and Corinne Schroeder, each contributing unique strengths to the team dynamic.
**PWHL Las Vegas**
– **Players signed:** Hilary Knight (F), Hayley Scamurra (F), Erin Ambrose (D), Mae Batherson (D), Kendall Cooper (D)
Las Vegas, despite an impending trade involving Hilary Knight, has laid a strong foundation with a focus on defensive prowess. Erin Ambrose, a seasoned defender with leadership qualities, is set to steer the team’s blue line. The defensive core is further fortified by Mae Batherson and Kendall Cooper, both emerging talents from Minnesota. The team ethos of excellence and winning is evident in the signings, setting the stage for a competitive season ahead.
These initial signings offer a glimpse into the strategic direction and player dynamics of the new PWHL teams as they gear up for the upcoming season.
