The Minnesota Frost team rejoices after claiming the Walter Cup title last season. (Photo by Kelly Hagenson/PWHL)\
The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) is back for its second season, with teams hitting the ice this week for pre-season scrimmages in Toronto and Montreal. These games, scheduled ahead of the regular-season opener on November 30, will shape final rosters before the deadline on November 27. The league's much-anticipated second season brings not just fresh rules and revamped jerseys but also intriguing questions about each team’s journey.
Toronto Sceptres: Can They Thrive Without Spooner?
Natalie Spooner, Toronto’s top performer last season, remains sidelined due to a knee injury. Recovering from surgery, she’s on long-term injured reserve with no set return date. To fill the gap, the Sceptres will rely on new talent like free-agent Daryl Watts, a scoring powerhouse from Ottawa, and first-round pick Julia Gosling. Both players bring energy and skill that could offset Spooner’s absence.
Ottawa Charge: Will Defence Be Their Strength?
Ottawa’s defensive struggles last season raised eyebrows, but reinforcements are here. Finnish defender Ronja Savolainen, known for her physical style, joins the roster alongside NCAA standout goaltender Gwyneth Philips. With added depth on the blue line and in goal, Ottawa looks poised to fix their leaky defence and give star netminder Emerance Maschmeyer some relief.
Montreal Victoire: Is Ljungblom the X-Factor?
Montreal’s gamble on Matilda Ljungblom, the final pick in the 2023 draft, could pay off big. Ljungblom, a versatile forward with a keen shot, arrives from Sweden ready to make her mark. Whether playing alongside star Marie-Philip Poulin or anchoring another line, Ljungblom’s potential is undeniable. Montreal also boasts Abby Boreen, a Walter Cup winner, to bolster its offensive depth.
Boston Fleet: Can They Find Their Scoring Touch?
Boston struggled to score last season, but new additions may change that. American forward Hannah Bilka and defender Daniela Pejšová bring play making prowess and power-play potential. With Bilka’s ability to create opportunities and Pejšová’s puck-moving skills, Boston aims to climb the scoring charts.
New York Sirens: Will New Leadership Bring Success?
The Sirens face a fresh start under new coach Greg Fargo, who takes the reins after a disappointing debut season. Fargo will lean on first-overall pick Sarah Fillier, a dynamic forward who can adapt to multiple roles. With Fillier’s versatility and Fargo’s fresh strategies, New York is primed for a turnaround.
Minnesota Frost: Can They Repeat as Champions?
After claiming the Walter Cup, Minnesota faces new challenges, including a management shuffle and the departure of key players. However, they’ve added Canadian Olympian Claire Thompson to the roster and retained their elite goal tending duo, Nicole Hensley and Maddie Rooney. Minnesota’s ability to adapt will determine if they can defend their title.
