The second season of the PWHL has been nothing short of thrilling, with players reaching new heights, intense rivalries and a fresh level of competition exceeding preseason expectations. With the trade deadline quickly approaching, front offices are evaluating their rosters and determining what could make them just the second team to win the Walter Cup. They must strategize for both a strong playoff push and long-term success. Let’s take a look at the potential buyers and sellers, key needs for each team and which players could be on the move before the March 13 deadline.
Toronto Sceptres
Courtesy of the Toronto Sceptres
Toronto’s offensive talent is undeniable, but their consistency has been an occasional issue. With the playoffs in sight, securing a player who could bolster their defense with two-way game could make them an even bigger threat.
With the recent return of Natalie Spooner to the lineup, the Toronto Sceptres have regained a key offensive player and jumped to second in the standings, behind Montréal. After a rough start to the season, they’ve recently put themselves in the position to be buyers. However, depth remains a bit of a concern. As they navigate the rest of the regular season and prepare for playoffs, injuries and fatigue can take a toll and the Sceptres may look to add reinforcements to maintain a high level of play.
One area of focus could be secondary scoring after their exit in the finals last year. Relying too heavily on their top forwards again could leave them vulnerable in tightly contested playoff matchups. Acquiring a reliable depth forward could be another option, allowing for contribution offensively while still maintaining a strong defensive presence. A two-way player who can kill penalties and add stability in all aspects of the lineup would be a valuable asset to any team, and would provide a much needed balance.
Boston Fleet
Courtesy of the Boston Fleet
The Boston Fleet are in a similar situation to the Sceptres. The team has high-end talent that produces offensively, like Hilary Knight, but some questions arise when it comes to depth and reliability across the roster. While Knight and a few other star players can lead the charge offensively, there are times when the rest of the team must step up and take the pressure off of their top players. Without consistent contributions from the lower lines and defensemen, the Fleet can find themselves struggling to maintain position, especially when facing top-tier competition.
On the other hand, while Aerin Frankel has been strong in the crease, injuries are always a possibility, and ensuring a strong backup goaltender could be a smart move for the Fleet. Relying solely on one goaltender to carry a team through an entire season and postseason can be a risk, and a strong backup who can step in and perform at a high level when necessary would provide Boston with the confidence they need to contend for the Walter Cup.
Minnesota Frost
Courtesy of the Minnesota Frost
The reigning champions of the inaugural season have found themselves in the middle of the pack as the deadline approaches. They could take the jump and buy in for another playoff push, or they could take a step back and see what happens. Goaltending has been the key issue for the Frost, so if they decide to go all in, they may need to address that crucial position.
Nicole Hensley and Maddie Rooney have shared the goaltending responsibility this season, but neither has provided the consistency needed to ensure another championship run. If Minnesota wants to defend their title, acquiring a reliable starting goaltender should be a top priority.
Montréal Victoire
Courtesy of the Montréal Victoire
Montréal has been consistently at the top of the standings this season, with all of its top players producing and their depth players contributing wherever possible. It seems as though the team has clicked and ran off with the first place position.
Throughout the season though, injuries have become a concern. Adding another depth forward would give the team additional insurance in case of further injuries, while also providing fresh support for the playoffs. While elite talents like Marie-Philip Poulin, who we all know comes in as Captain Clutch for her team, and Laura Stacey have carried them, having another forward who is available to play in any situation is crucial.
New York Sirens
Courtesy of the New York Sirens
The New York Sirens are an interesting team this season. They’ve been stuck at the bottom of the standings, but they seem to have many of the necessary pieces to succeed. So, where are they going wrong? Sarah Fillier is second in points, but the majority of the team is almost nowhere to be found among league leaders.
With standout players, it’s baffling how they’ve struggled to translate individual skill into collective success. Team chemistry may be an issue, but capitalizing on key moments has also been an area for improvement. The Sirens haven’t yet been eliminated from playoff contention, and while they’re well on their way, they could still turn their season around with some key moves across all areas of their roster.
Ottawa Charge
Courtesy of the Ottawa Charge
The Charge have a strong lineup, and with the recent additions of Victoria Bach and Jocelyne Larocque from their trade with the Toronto Sceptres, there is plenty of potential. Despite their skilled roster, the Charge could elevate their game significantly with some small upgrades to their back end. Strengthening their defense could provide the stability needed to ensure close games end in their favor. A solid defensive core would not only reduce the turnovers and prevent opposing teams scoring chances, but also allow their forwards to push offensively without getting caught out of position.
With the right tweaks to their roster, Ottawa has the opportunity to unlock new levels of success and make them a serious contender for the championship, if not this year then definitely next year.
Edited by Jenna Mandarano
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