In a thrilling announcement from the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), the six inaugural teams have officially revealed their player protection lists as they gear up for the 2025 expansion roster process. This strategic move protects key players from being chosen during the Exclusive Signing Window and the Expansion Draft, setting the stage for the upcoming season.

The Teams and Their Protected Stars

Each of the six pioneering teams has staked their claim to three top players. Here’s who made the cut:

- **Boston Fleet**: Aerin Frankel (G), Megan Keller (D), Alina Müller (F) - **Minnesota Frost**: Kendall Coyne Schofield (F), Taylor Heise (F), Lee Stecklein (D) - **Montréal Victoire**: Ann-Renée Desbiens (G), Marie-Philip Poulin (F), Laura Stacey (F) - **New York Sirens**: Sarah Fillier (F), Ella Shelton (D), Micah Zandee-Hart (D) - **Ottawa Charge**: Emily Clark (F), Gwyneth Philips (G), Ronja Savolainen (D) - **Toronto Sceptres**: Renata Fast (D), Blayre Turnbull (F), Daryl Watts (F)

Strategic Moves Ahead of Expansion

As the PWHL Seattle and PWHL Vancouver prepare for their inaugural season from 2025-26, this player protection list signifies a critical initial step. Each team can expand their protected list to four players after losing two through either signing or selection, ensuring they retain their star athletes.

Mark Your Calendars: Key Dates Ahead!

Fans eager for the action can mark their calendars for important upcoming events:

- **Exclusive Signing Window**: From June 4 (9 A.M. ET) to June 8 (5 P.M. ET), expansion teams can exclusively sign up to five players. - **Expansion Draft Event**: Scheduled for June 9 (8:30 P.M. ET), Seattle and Vancouver will round out their rosters by selecting at least seven players each, aiming for a full 12-player squad.

Who Are the Players in the Spotlight?

Several players are lined up for potential selection during this exciting window. Teams have numerous eligible players across their rosters. For instance, the Boston Fleet boasts talents like Hilary Knight and Sydney Bard, while the New York Sirens showcase standout potential picks including Alex Carpenter and Emmy Fecteau.

As the countdown to the expansion continues, anticipation is building in the hockey world. The PWHL is set to redefine women’s sports, and this expansion marks a monumental step in the journey of female hockey players.