After a break of five months, during which team rosters underwent changes and two new teams were introduced, the third season of PWHL is set to kick off this Friday. The upcoming season will see each team playing 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 has its sights set on expanding towards the west coast, with the Vancouver Goldeneyes hosting the Seattle Torrent in their inaugural game on Friday evening.
Looking ahead, the PWHL is considering the addition of two to four new teams in the upcoming season, aiming for a significant U.S. broadcast deal. The league is gearing up for an action-packed opening weekend, starting with a playoff rematch between the Minnesota Frost and the Toronto Sceptres on Friday. The Ottawa Charge will face off against the New York Sirens on Saturday, followed by the Montreal Victoire visiting Boston on Sunday.
CBC and CBC Gem will broadcast seventeen games this season, starting with the matchup between the Toronto Sceptres and Boston Fleet on November 29. As the new season unfolds, here are five key storylines to keep an eye on:
1. How will the two expansion teams integrate their rosters and perform?
2. What impact will the roster shakeups have on the league dynamics?
3. How will an Olympic year affect player performance and league visibility?
4. What rule changes will influence gameplay this season?
5. What plans does the league have for future expansion and market development?
The league is also exploring potential new markets for expansion, with plans to introduce more teams in the near future. The PWHL will embark on a Takeover Tour, featuring neutral-site games in various cities to expand its reach and engage with fans across different regions. Additionally, roster changes and rule modifications are expected to shape the competitive landscape of the league this season.
As the PWHL gears up for an exciting third season, the league is focused on enhancing the fan experience, promoting player development, and expanding its presence in the women’s hockey landscape. With the Olympics on the horizon and new teams entering the fray, the PWHL is poised for another compelling season of competitive hockey action.