The Professional Women’s Hockey League unveiled a formal expansion player distribution process on Wednesday, setting the stage for a wave of roster reshuffles across its six franchises.
The league’s announcement signals that the next few weeks will be dominated by contract negotiations, protection lists and the movement of talent as teams lock in their protected assets ahead of the draft.
Protected Players Across the League
Boston Fleet revealed that Aerin Frankel and Megan Keller are among the players signed and earmarked for protection, underscoring the club’s intent to retain core talent.
In Minnesota, the Frost announced the retention of Britta Curl‑Salemme and Maddie Rooney, both of whom have already secured contracts for the upcoming season.
Montréal Victoire confirmed the presence of Marie‑Philip Poulin and Laura Stacey on its protection list, highlighting the team’s reliance on veteran leadership.
New York Sirens disclosed that Anne Cherkowski and Kristýna Kaltounková are signed and protected, adding depth to a roster that aims to compete from the outset.
Ottawa Charge listed Emily Clark and Rory Guilday as protected players, reflecting a strategy that blends experience with emerging talent.
Seattle Torrent highlighted Cayla Barnes and Lexie Adzija as signed and protected, emphasizing a defensive focus for the expansion side.
Toronto Sceptres announced Jesse Compher and Emma Gentry as protected, positioning the club to build around a dynamic forward group.
Vancouver Goldeneyes confirmed Ashton Bell and Sophie Jaques as signed and protected, rounding out a roster that seeks to make an immediate impact.
What This Means for the League
The distribution process not only clarifies which players each franchise will keep but also sets the parameters for new signings and potential trades as the league expands its footprint.
Fans can expect a flurry of official statements in the coming days, with each team gradually revealing the full extent of its roster moves.
The upcoming draft will serve as a pivotal moment, determining how the new franchises integrate into the competitive landscape and what the overall balance of power will look like in the next season.