The Boston Fleet may have experienced a challenging offseason, but their selection of defender Haley Winn with the second overall pick in the PWHL draft is already paying significant dividends for the franchise.
Underrated Draft Pick Making Immediate Impact
While much of the attention focused on first overall selection Kristyna Kaltounkova going to the New York Sirens, and the league-altering trade at number three that sent Ella Shelton to Toronto, Winn's arrival in Boston generated less fanfare. The Clarkson University product was clearly the top defender available in a strong draft class for blueliners.
Winn quickly demonstrated why Boston valued her so highly during her regular season debut against Montreal Victoire. The rookie logged just under 26 minutes of ice time in a 2-0 shutout victory, contributing six shots and a block while playing a defensive masterclass against a powerful Montreal lineup.
Proven Track Record and Future Potential
Although Winn didn't record a point in her first professional game, her offensive capabilities are well-documented. During her college career at Clarkson, she accumulated 130 points over 151 games, establishing herself as a two-way threat from the blue line.
The level of trust shown by the Fleet organization is particularly noteworthy. Ice time approaching 26 minutes is typically reserved for established veterans like Megan Keller, Renata Fast, or Lee Stecklein. For a first-year player to earn that responsibility in her debut game speaks volumes about Winn's readiness for professional hockey.
Boston's Defensive Strategy Taking Shape
Boston's decision to prioritize defense in the draft, despite losing significant offensive firepower, indicates the team's strategic direction. With elite goaltender Aerin Frankel already established and now pairing Winn with Keller, the Fleet appear built for low-scoring, defensively sound hockey.
Frankel, who was instrumental in Boston's Walter Cup final appearance in the league's first season, acknowledged the team's changes while expressing optimism about the current roster. "We still have a lot of our core intact and having a new head coach is a fresh start for everyone," Frankel said, referencing the coaching change from Courtney Kessel to Kris Sparre.
The departure of franchise icon Hilary Knight to Seattle Torrent leaves big shoes to fill, both in leadership and scoring. Alina Muller, who is expected to assume greater offensive responsibility, acknowledged the challenge ahead. "It will definitely be super weird," Muller admitted regarding playing without Knight. "I'm super sad that I can't be around her anymore every day."
Despite the significant roster changes, Muller expressed confidence in the team's foundation. "We've built this culture together in Boston," she noted. "Culture-wise, we will have a smooth transition and build on what we already have."
Fans will get their first look at Winn and the revamped Fleet when they face the Toronto Sceptres in their home opener on Saturday at 2 p.m. at Coca-Cola Coliseum.
