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The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) is set to launch its third season on November 21. This year is pivotal as the league expands from six to eight teams, introducing new franchises in Vancouver and Seattle.
Fans can anticipate the inaugural matchup of the expansion teams at 10 p.m.
ET in the Pacific Coliseum, the primary venue for the PWHL’s Vancouver team. Earlier that day, the reigning champions, the Minnesota Frost, will face the Toronto Sceptres at 7 p.m. ET, vying for their third consecutive Walter Cup.
Expanded schedule and competitive edge
This season promises an engaging schedule, featuring a total of 120 games, an increase from 90 last season and just 72 the year prior. Each team will play 30 games, ensuring a minimum of four encounters against each other.
This expansion not only heightens competition but also enhances the overall experience for fans.
Jayna Hefford, executive vice-president of hockey operations for the PWHL, stated, “This season is going to be remarkable, especially with the much-anticipated debut of our new teams in Seattle and Vancouver, as well as our expanding community on the West Coast.” Hefford expressed optimism regarding the contributions of both new and returning players this season.
Season opening weekend
The opening weekend will feature all teams in action. On Saturday, the Ottawa Charge will host the New York Sirens at 7 p.m. ET. On Sunday, the Montreal Victoire will compete against the Boston Fleet beginning at 1 p.m.
ET. Fans eagerly await updates on broadcast options for the games.
Furthermore, the league will continue its tradition of hosting games outside home venues. Following the successful Takeover Tour from the previous season, which spanned nine cities, the PWHL plans to expand this initiative for the current season.
New faces and team dynamics
The introduction of expansion teams will bring significant changes to several existing franchises. The Vancouver team features an impressive defensive lineup, including three defenders pivotal to last year’s championship victory with Minnesota: Sophie Jaques, Claire Thompson, and Mellissa Channell-Watkins.
Additionally, Vancouver’s roster will showcase local talent such as Hannah Miller from North Vancouver and Jennifer Gardiner from Surrey, British Columbia. Gardiner expressed enthusiasm, stating, “Starting our season at home in the Pacific Coliseum is a dream come true. I’ve always imagined this moment, and I’m thrilled to share it with my teammates and the fans on November 21.”
Transformations in existing teams
The expansion has prompted considerable transformations within teams. The New York Sirens, for instance, have faced substantial changes, losing four of their top five scorers and starting goaltender Corinne Schroeder. Consequently, the team is now focusing on building around rookie sensation Sarah Fillier and top draft picks Kristýna Kaltounková and Casey O’Brien, as they aim for playoff success.
This season will also include a brief pause for the Olympic break, marking the first occurrence of such a break in the PWHL’s history. From December 8 to 15, the league will take a hiatus for international competitions, including two Canada-U.S. Rivalry Series games in Edmonton. A further break will take place from January 29 to February 25 for the Olympic games, beginning with preliminaries on February 5 and culminating in the gold medal match on February 19.
Looking ahead
Fans can anticipate the inaugural matchup of the expansion teams at 10 p.m. ET in the Pacific Coliseum, the primary venue for the PWHL’s Vancouver team. Earlier that day, the reigning champions, the Minnesota Frost, will face the Toronto Sceptres at 7 p.m. ET, vying for their third consecutive Walter Cup.0
