After a break of five months characterized by roster changes and the addition of two new teams, the third season of PWHL is set to kick off this Friday. The upcoming season will see each team play 30 regular-season games, with a break in February for the Milano-Cortina Olympics. The top four teams will advance to the Walter Cup playoffs.
The league’s expansion focused on the west coast, with the Vancouver Goldeneyes hosting the Seattle Torrent in their inaugural game on Friday night. Looking ahead, the PWHL is eyeing a potential U.S. broadcast deal, with plans for another two to four teams to join in the following season.
Starting with a busy weekend, the season opener features the Minnesota Frost hosting the Toronto Sceptres in a playoff rematch, followed by the Seattle Torrent facing the Vancouver Goldeneyes. Subsequent matches include the Ottawa Charge against the New York Sirens and the Montreal Victoire visiting Boston.
Notably, 17 games from this season will be broadcast on CBC and CBC Gem, starting with a matchup between the Toronto Sceptres and Boston Fleet on November 29.
Key storylines for the league’s third season include how the two expansion teams will integrate their rosters. The Vancouver Goldeneyes and Seattle Torrent have acquired notable players, with Vancouver boasting stars like Sarah Nurse and Seattle showcasing a strong offensive lineup.
The challenge for the new teams lies in building chemistry and adapting to new systems quickly. Despite high expectations, success on paper does not always translate immediately on the ice. However, both Vancouver and Seattle have already shown success in ticket sales and fan engagement.
Looking forward, the PWHL plans to expand further, with discussions ongoing to identify potential new markets and partners. Additionally, the league will embark on a Takeover Tour, staging games in various cities to promote women’s hockey.
Roster changes and rule adjustments are also on the horizon for the upcoming season. The league continues to innovate, implementing changes to enhance gameplay and maintain competitive balance. With the Olympics set to interrupt the season, the PWHL aims to leverage the international event to attract new fans and elevate its business.
Lastly, the PWHL has appointed a hall of fame official to oversee officiating, emphasizing the importance of consistent and reliable refereeing for the league’s growth and success.