Sirens’ rookie sensation Fillier among 6 players to watch when new PWHL season begins

As the second season of the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) kicks off, general managers, coaches, and players are more prepared than ever. Last fall was a whirlwind for Boston Fleet general manager Danielle Marmer, but this year, she has a better idea of what it takes to build a successful team.

With a season under their belts, everyone involved in the league now knows what to expect. Games are going to be close, physical, and highly competitive. GMs like Marmer have had the offseason to reflect on what attributes and abilities are most important in the PWHL.

For Marmer, this meant making some tough decisions during the draft and final roster cuts. Sometimes, it meant passing on a skilled player in favor of someone who excels at forechecking or winning puck battles in the corner. The puzzle of putting together a winning team is more clear this year, but still challenging.

The Fleet will kick off their season on the road against the Toronto Sceptres, a game that will be streamed on CBCSports.ca, CBC Gem, and the CBC Sports App. The Minnesota Frost, last season’s Walter Cup champions, are looking to defend their title and have a target on their backs.

For teams like the Montreal Victoire, who fell short in the playoffs last season, the sting of defeat has fueled their offseason training. They are determined to come back stronger and more prepared this year.

Two teams that didn’t make the playoffs last year, the New York Sirens and the Ottawa Charge, have made significant changes in the hopes of improving their standings. The Sirens have added generational talent in Sarah Fillier, while the Charge have focused on getting bigger and grittier on the ice.

As the season begins, there are six players to watch closely. Sarah Fillier of the New York Sirens, Danielle Serdachny of the Ottawa Charge, Kristen Campbell of the Toronto Sceptres, Lina Ljungblom of the Montreal Victoire, Taylor Heise of the Minnesota Frost, and Hannah Bilka of the Boston Fleet all have the potential to make a big impact this season.

With a better understanding of what it takes to succeed in the PWHL, teams and players are ready to hit the ice and showcase their skills. The competition will be fierce, but the passion and dedication of everyone involved in the league will undoubtedly make for an exciting second season.