PWHL 2025–26: The Women to Watch This Season

The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) is entering its most electrifying season yet. With expanded teams, sold-out arenas, national broadcasts, and a surge of global attention, the PWHL is proving, night after night, that women’s professional hockey is not just growing, it’s thriving. This year’s athletes bring unmatched skill, speed, and storytelling to the ice, each one shaping the momentum of a league that’s redefining what’s possible in women’s sports.

These are the standout players driving the energy and excitement of the 2025–26 season:

Marie-Philip Poulin, Montréal Victoire: The undisputed global icon of women’s hockey. Poulin’s scoring power, leadership, and clutch play make every Montréal matchup a must-watch.

Renata Fast, Toronto Sceptres: One of the league’s top two-way defenders. Fast’s speed, precision, and ability to create offense from the blue line make her a game-changer.

Sarah Nurse, Vancouver Goldeneyes: A superstar in a new city. Nurse brings elite scoring, magnetic energy, and instant excitement to Vancouver’s expansion team.

Aerin Frankel, Boston Fleet: A goaltender who changes the entire pace of a game. Frankel’s consistency and big-save moments keep Boston in every battle.

Alex Carpenter, Seattle Torrent: Seattle’s offensive anchor. Carpenter’s experience, scoring touch, and leadership set the tone for the league’s newest franchise.

Kristyna Kaltounkova, New York Sirens: A rising force. The consecutive first-overall pick brings speed, physicality, and breakout potential as she steps into a leading role.

Emily Clark, Ottawa Charge: Ottawa’s heartbeat. Clark drives the Charge’s offense and remains central to the team’s identity on and off the ice.

Lee Stecklein, Minnesota Frost: The foundation of Minnesota’s championship runs. Stecklein’s strength in high-pressure moments keeps the Frost in title contention.

This year isn’t just about goals, saves, or standings; it’s about a movement. These athletes are elevating the women’s game to new heights, inspiring young players, igniting fan bases, and proving there is enormous demand for women’s professional sports. Their talent, visibility, and leadership are building the foundation for the future of hockey, where opportunity, investment, and excitement continue to grow.

The PWHL isn’t just having a season. It’s having a moment, and these women are leading it.