The Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) is expanding with four new teams: Hamilton, Las Vegas, Detroit, and San Jose. The expansion draft process has reached Phase 2, where each team selected five foundational players. They will add five more before the amateur draft on June 17.
PWHL Hamilton
GM Meghan Duggan focused on character and hockey IQ, selecting Brianne Jenner (Ottawa), Nicole Gosling (Montreal), Kayle Osborne (New York), Emily Clark (Ottawa), and Alina Muller (Boston). Notably, Duggan did not use the Expansion Foundational Offer option, saving cap space and flexibility. She secured only one defender, but Gosling is considered a top young blueliner. Osborne provides a solid starting goaltender.
PWHL Detroit
GM Manon Rheaume prioritized offense with toughness, selecting Daryl Watts (Toronto), Cayla Barnes (Seattle), Hannah Bilka (Seattle), Britta Curl-Salemme (Minnesota), and Jesse Compher (Toronto). Curl-Salemme's controversial views and suspensions may challenge fan acceptance. Detroit did not select a goaltender, betting on finding one in later phases or the draft, with options like Andrea Brandli or Tia Chan.
PWHL Las Vegas
GM Dominique DiDia chose three defenders: Erin Ambrose (Montreal), Kendall Cooper (Minnesota), Mae Batherson (Minnesota), plus forwards Hayley Scamurra (Montreal) and Hilary Knight (Seattle). Knight's selection was strategic; she will be traded to Detroit for a first-round pick, a move that has sparked debate. Las Vegas still needs a number one goaltender.
PWHL San Jose
GM and head coach Troy Ryan secured goaltender Corinne Schroeder (Seattle), defender Rory Guilday (Ottawa), and forwards Kristin O'Neill (New York), Anne Cherkowski (New York), and Maddi Wheeler (New York). Ryan's previous league experience gives him an edge. His picks lack star power but offer depth and versatility.
Next Steps
Phase 3 allows expansion teams to sign up to three additional players from unsigned or unprotected players. Non-binding offers have been made to several players, including Izzy Daniel and Grace Zumwinkle. Protected lists are due by Friday at 5 p.m.
