When the general managers of the four new PWHL expansion teams start signing players this week, they will have a wide array of well-known players to select from.
The league initiated a complex six-phase process to fill the rosters of the four expansion teams at the beginning of the week. This marks the initial stage of what is expected to be a transformative off-season for all PWHL teams.
In the first phase, which concluded on Wednesday, the existing eight teams had the opportunity to safeguard three players each. All protected players were required to be under contract or have their rights held by the team by Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET. Shortly after, the teams submitted their protection lists to the league.
Among the unprotected players were notable names like Hilary Knight, Daryl Watts, Kendall Coyne Schofield, Blayre Turnbull, and Brianne Jenner, all of whom are currently free agents.
The expansion teams based in Hamilton, Detroit, San Jose, and Las Vegas are set to commence their inaugural season.
The GMs of these new teams can each sign five players, starting on Friday at 12 p.m. ET, which marks the second phase of the expansion signings.
Meghan Duggan, the GM of PWHL Hamilton, emphasized the objective of the six-phase process is to facilitate the building of competitive teams by the expansion franchises while also ensuring the players’ association is content with the process.
If the new teams do not secure five players by the end of the second phase, a selection process will be implemented for them to acquire players from existing teams.
Each expansion team holds a significant card in the form of an expansion foundational offer, which is a binding offer enabling the player to decide on a contract duration between one to four years. These offers are valued at a minimum of $100,000 US per season.
The protection lists led to a flurry of free agent signings this week as teams raced to secure star players to ensure they could be safeguarded.
In Toronto, defenseman Renata Fast and goaltender Raygan Kirk inked deals to remain with the Sceptres. Fast, a standout defender in women’s hockey, has committed to Toronto through the 2028-29 season. Kirk’s two-year agreement solidifies her position as Toronto’s goaltender of the future.
The protection list of Toronto raised intrigue across the league as the team had more pending free agents compared to others, potentially putting their captain and top scorer at risk of being picked up by other teams.
Minnesota Frost re-signed forwards Taylor Heise and Kelly Pannek to three-year deals, securing key components of their championship-winning team. Heise, the playoff MVP in 2024, has evolved into a premier playmaker, while Pannek, a top-tier two-way center, had an outstanding offensive season.
Vancouver Goldeneyes retained forward Sarah Nurse for two seasons, providing stability and a focal point for the team as they enter their second season.
In summary, the PWHL expansion process is well underway, with teams strategizing and making key signings to fortify their rosters for the upcoming season.