The Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) announced today that its expansion franchise in Hamilton has finalized a historic first wave of signings, confirming Brianne Jenner, Kayle Osborne, Alina Müller, Nicole Gosling and Emily Clark as the core of the new team. The moves signal a clear intent to build a competitive foundation from day one.
Brianne Jenner, who captained the Ottawa Charge, brings a proven track record of offensive production, having finished fourth in league scoring during the 2025‑26 season with 12 goals and 14 assists. Her leadership on and off the ice is expected to set a standard for younger teammates.
Kayle Osborne, a veteran net‑minder who appeared in 25 games for the New York Sirens, posted a 2.47 goals‑against average and a .906 save percentage, underscoring her reliability between the pipes. Her experience will be a cornerstone for Hamilton's defensive structure.
Alina Müller arrives with an impressive résumé that includes three Olympic appearances for Switzerland and the distinction of being Boston's first-ever first‑round draft pick in 2023. Her international pedigree adds a global flair to the roster.
Nicole Gosling has emerged as a defensive standout, leading all PWHL defenders with a plus‑16 rating and earning finalist status for the league's Rookie of the Year award. Her ability to drive play from the back end should bolster the team's overall competitiveness.
Emily Clark, a member of Canada's Olympic squad for the Milano‑Cortina Games, also holds the distinction of being the league's highest‑paid player for the 2025‑26 season. Her presence not only elevates the team's talent level but also reinforces the franchise's commitment to securing top talent.
Leadership as the Cornerstone
General manager Meghan Duggan emphasized that the acquisition strategy was driven by a desire to embed strong leadership qualities within the squad. "We wanted a mix of experience, talent and character that could guide this franchise from the outset," Duggan said in a statement.
The financial commitment to these five players exceeds $400,000, reflecting the league's willingness to invest heavily in a sustainable future for women's professional hockey. This spending pattern underscores a broader ambition to professionalize the sport and attract top-tier athletes.
Beyond individual statistics, the collective narrative of these signings paints a picture of a franchise that is deliberately constructing a balanced roster. By blending veteran savvy with emerging talent, Hamilton aims to avoid the typical growing‑pain phases seen in new teams and instead launch with immediate credibility.