As the Professional Women's Hockey League eyes its next phase of growth, the Ottawa Charge find themselves at a crossroads. The franchise must decide which players to protect as the league prepares for expansion and navigates the complexities of free agency.
The Protection Puzzle
At the heart of the decision is a trio of standout performers whose contracts are set to expire soon. Each brings a distinct blend of skill, durability and marketability that could shape the Charge's competitive outlook.
Gwyneth Philips, the team's No. 1 goaltender, has been a pillar between the pipes, logging a 2.12 goals‑against average and a .931 save percentage over 91% of minutes this season. Her 16 regular‑season wins and a stellar playoff run, where she posted a 1.99 GAA and .929 save percentage, have positioned her as a top candidate for protection.
Forward Rebecca Leslie, meanwhile, burst onto the scene with a breakout year that yielded 23 points, including a team‑high 14 goals. The 23‑year‑old contributed four goals and six points in eight playoff games, underscoring her value in high‑pressure moments.
Defender Ronja Savolainen rounds out the core group, having skated in all 30 regular‑season games and led Charge blueliners with 10 points and 55 shots on goal. Averaging over 22 minutes per game, she combines offensive upside with defensive reliability, and still has two seasons remaining on her deal.
Financial Landscape and Sponsorship
Salary figures reflect the modest yet growing financial framework of the PWHL. Philips commands a base salary of $91,200 for the 2025‑26 season, placing her among the league's highest‑paid netminders. Leslie will earn $60,000, while Savolainen's contract is valued at $55,751.70. These numbers illustrate the economic pressures teams face when balancing competitive rosters with fiscal responsibility.
Beyond the ice, the Charge benefit from partnerships that extend the league's reach. Canadian Tire, a long‑standing supporter of grassroots sport, continues to sponsor the franchise, underscoring the intersection of community investment and professional ambition.
The broader implications reach beyond individual contracts. Protecting key talent not only bolsters on‑ice performance but also strengthens the Charge's brand equity as the league pushes toward expansion into new markets such as Boston, Massachusetts, United States, and deeper roots in Ontario, Canada.