The energy inside the Fox Theatre was unmistakable as the 2026 PWHL Draft kicked off, drawing fans, scouts and players into a night that felt part celebration, part ritual. The venue, steeped in Detroit’s musical legacy, provided a fitting backdrop for a ceremony that blended tradition with the growing prominence of women’s professional hockey.
A Six‑Round Journey to the 72nd Pick
Organizers structured the event into six distinct rounds, guaranteeing that every one of the 72 available slots would be filled. Each round brought its own cadence, with teams alternating between familiar powerhouses and emerging franchises, all eager to secure the talent that could shape the league’s future.
The first overall pick sent a clear message about the draft’s competitive balance: Caroline Harvey, a standout from Wisconsin, was selected by the Vancouver Goldeneyes. Her collegiate career at the University of Wisconsin had already earned her accolades, and the Goldeneyes hoped her defensive prowess would anchor their back line.
Just a spot later, the Seattle Torrent turned to Abbey Murphy of Minnesota, rewarding the Gophers’ offensive dynamism with a second‑overall selection. Murphy’s speed and scoring touch made her a coveted prospect, and the Torrent’s coaching staff envisioned her as a catalyst for a more aggressive attack.
The third overall pick went to Tessa Janecke, a Penn State alumna who found a new home with the Las Vegas franchise. Janecke’s two‑way play and leadership at the collegiate level hinted at a smooth transition to the professional stage.
Laila Edwards, also a Wisconsin product, slipped to fourth overall where San Jose claimed her rights. Her physical style and relentless work ethic resonated with the franchise’s identity, promising a defensive presence that could shift momentum in tight games.
The draft continued to spotlight talent from a handful of universities. Lacey Eden, another Wisconsin skater, was taken fifth by Las Vegas, while Nelli Laitinen from Minnesota joined Hamilton in the sixth round. Each selection underscored the depth of skill emerging from the collegiate pipeline.
Later rounds added further intrigue as prospects from Ohio State, Cornell and Princeton found homes with teams such as the New York Sirens, Boston Fleet and Ottawa Charge. Sara Swiderski from Ohio State, Grace Dwyer from Cornell and Vivian Jungels from Wisconsin each represented a blend of skill sets that could diversify the league’s competitive landscape.
The final pick of the second round, Issy Wunder from Princeton, was claimed by Las Vegas, rounding out a night that celebrated not only individual achievement but also the collective rise of women’s hockey. As the draft concluded, the focus shifted to training camps and preseason preparations, where these newly selected players would vie for roster spots and, ultimately, a place in the league’s history.