Ashton Bell, Julia Gosling among young stars selected in PWHL expansion draft

The PWHL expansion draft last June saw the league’s two newest teams, Vancouver and Seattle, acquire a wealth of young talent from the original six teams. The goal was to ensure that both Vancouver and Seattle would be competitive and maintain the league’s parity. The result is two brand new teams that could seriously contend for the Walter Cup next season.

Vancouver, under the leadership of general manager Cara Gardner Morey, focused on building their team from the net out. They signed long-time Team Canada backup goaltender, Emerance Maschmeyer, and acquired top young defenders like Sophie Jaques and Claire Thompson. The first pick in the expansion draft was used on Ashton Bell, a former forward turned defender who brings both offensive and defensive skills to the team.

On the offensive end, Vancouver will be led by superstar Sarah Nurse and a group of talented forwards, including Rookie of the Year candidate Jennifer Gardiner and Walter Cup champions Abby Boreen and Brooke McQuigge. The team prioritized two-way forwards who can score goals and provide depth.

Seattle, on the other hand, boasts a top-six forward group that could be the best in the league. With players like Alex Carpenter, Hilary Knight, and Hannah Bilka leading the way, the team has a potent offensive attack. Seattle’s second line, featuring Jessie Eldridge, Danielle Serdachny, and Julia Gosling, is described as a “powerhouse” by GM Meghan Turner.

Seattle also added Aneta Tejralová, the Czech Republic national team captain, known for her shot-blocking abilities and defensive prowess. The team’s roster is rounded out by goaltender Corinne Schroeder, one of the best in the league.

As the new teams build their rosters, the original six teams are left with holes to fill. With key players leaving for Vancouver and Seattle, teams like Montreal, New York, and Boston will need to regroup and rebuild. The entry draft and free agency window will provide opportunities for the original six teams to restock their rosters and compete with the league’s newest franchises.

Overall, the PWHL expansion draft has set the stage for an exciting and competitive season ahead. With talent spread across all eight teams, the league’s parity remains intact, ensuring thrilling matchups and fierce competition on the ice.