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PWHL offseason sees expansion teams succeed and veterans challenged

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 24, 2026, 10:16 AM

Last updated Jun 24, 2026

PWHL offseason sees expansion teams succeed and veterans challenged

Summary

The PWHL's expansion roster building process has concluded, favoring new teams Detroit, Hamilton, Las Vegas, and San Jose, which added significant talent. Vancouver Goldeneyes retained key players and bolstered their lineup with first overall pick Caroline Harvey. Meanwhile, Hamilton's management led by Meghan Duggan has formed a well-rounded squad. Despite a wealth of forward talent, Detroit faces questions about its defensive depth and goaltending. Montreal Victoire made strong moves in free agency, but defensive losses pose challenges. Teams now prepare for the upcoming season with mixed outcomes from the offseason.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Expansion teams stocked with elite talent through favorable rules.
•Vancouver retains key players and drafts Caroline Harvey.
•Hamilton builds a well-rounded roster under new management.
•Detroit faces defensive depth concerns despite strong forwards.
•Montreal retains top scorers but loses key defenders.

Latest Updates

10:16 AMYahoo Sports — Winners and losers of the PWHL offseason: Vancouver nails it, Toronto rocked by expansion

What they're saying

"
With the PWHL’s six-phase expansion roster building process coming to an end, it’s clear the league’s newest teams are the biggest winners of the offseason. Detroit, Hamilton, Las Vegas and San Jose all stocked their inaugural rosters with elite talent, thanks to a set of rules — and an entry draft order — that heavily favored expansion teams over the PWHL’s eight existing clubs. Twenty-five Olympians, including eight American gold medalists, were either drafted or signed by one of the PWHL’s fo
— Yahoo Sports

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