The Professional Women's Hockey League’s Detroit franchise is entering a pivotal phase, adding fresh talent as it gears up for its inaugural entry draft scheduled for June 17.
Forward Taylor Girard, a native of Michigan, has become the first local player to sign with the club, agreeing to a two‑year contract that underscores the team’s commitment to home‑grown talent.
Defender Sydney Bard, who most recently skated for the Vancouver Goldeneyes, has also put pen to paper on a two‑year deal, bringing Western Canadian experience to the Motor City’s defense.
Local Roots Meet National Ambition
Two‑time U.S. gold‑medalist Hilary Knight is slated to join Detroit through a sign‑and‑trade arrangement with the Las Vegas expansion squad, a move that promises veteran leadership and a proven scoring touch.
Forward Jesse Compher, the younger sister of Detroit Red Wings forward J.T. Compher, signed a three‑year agreement, linking a family legacy in hockey with the new franchise’s ambitions.
Scoring forward Britta Curl‑Salemme, a two‑season veteran of the Minnesota Frost, has committed to a three‑year contract, adding depth to the team’s offensive options.
Defensemen Cayla Barnes and Hannah Bilka, both alumni of Boston College, have each inked terms with Detroit — Barnes receiving a three‑year deal and Bilka a two‑year agreement — further solidifying the blue line.
The longest‑standing member of the Detroit roster, Daryl Watts, secured a four‑year contract, the longest commitment in league history, signaling stability and a long‑term vision for the club.
With eight players now under contract and more expected before the draft, the franchise is shaping a roster that blends local roots with national pedigree, setting the stage for a competitive debut.
The mix of Michigan‑born players and seasoned internationals reflects a strategic blend that could accelerate the team’s integration into the league’s competitive landscape.
Beyond individual contracts, the signings highlight the broader growth of women’s professional hockey, as the PWHL expands its footprint across North America and attracts talent from diverse collegiate programs.
The upcoming draft will serve as a final checkpoint, determining the final pieces that will complete the roster and potentially influence the team’s early performance in the league.