The Professional Women's Hockey League’s expansion process is entering a critical juncture, with several franchises announcing the re‑signing of core talent ahead of Phase 3’s protection window. These moves not only solidify team rosters but also influence the strategic calculus of the eight existing clubs and the growing list of expansion franchises.
Boston Fleet confirmed the return of four‑time Olympian Susanna Tapani on a two‑year deal, preserving a veteran presence that helped the club finish second in the league with nine goals and 18 points last season. Tapani’s re‑signing comes after the team lost top‑line center Alina Muller to Hamilton, making her experience vital for the Fleet’s offensive depth.
Seattle Torrent also secured forward Julia Gosling for two years. Gosling, who made her Olympic debut representing Canada and finished tied for the Torrent lead with 20 points, brings a blend of speed and playmaking that the club hopes will translate into continued offensive production.
Montreal Victoire announced the retention of defender Maggie Flaherty, the league’s only three‑time Walter Cup champion, on a two‑year contract. Vancouver added forward Jenn Gardiner, who posted 19 points (nine goals, 10 assists) last season, and rookie Izzy Daniel, who signed a three‑year agreement, bolstering the team’s forward depth.
Protected Lists and Expansion Mechanics
Players who re‑sign during the three‑day signing window automatically earn spots on their respective teams’ protected lists. Each of the eight established clubs can protect up to three additional skaters, creating a total of six protected slots per franchise as the expansion draft approaches.
Las Vegas took advantage of the window by signing Seattle defender Megan Carter to a two‑year contract, adding a player who contributed a goal and four assists in the previous season. The Golden Knights also secured goaltender Nicole Hensley, a two‑year deal that fills the franchise’s first net‑minder slot.
Detroit moved quickly to sign second‑year Goldeneyes defender Sydney Bard, the first player Vancouver lost to an expansion team, while San Jose inked second‑year Boston defender Hadley Hartmetz to a two‑year agreement. Both signings underscore the ripple effects of the protection process across the league.
The cascade of re‑signings not only shapes the competitive balance for the upcoming season but also sets the stage for a deeper talent pool as expansion teams continue to build competitive rosters. With key veterans locked in and emerging stars securing longer terms, the PWHL looks poised for heightened intensity and broader fan engagement as the next phase of expansion unfolds.