The PWHL is discussing expansion for the 2025-26 season, and Pittsburgh is a leading candidate to land a new franchise.
In 2023, the PWHL launched its inaugural season with franchises in Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, Boston, Minnesota, and New York. The league's first championship series featured two legendary hockey markets, Boston and Minnesota, with Minnesota winning the Walter Cup.
Based on the first-year successes of the world's first women's professional hockey league, the executives are already discussing expansion for the 2025-26 season.
One of the cities on the top of the list of possible expansion cities is Pittsburgh.
When the PWHL was getting organized, Pittsburgh applied to be one of the first cities to have a team but lost out in the bidding. However, the league and the city are mutually interested in working together.
Meanwhile, another hockey market, or "Hockeytown," is a strong contender to land a new franchise, Detroit.
According to senior vice president of business operations Amy Scheer, the league is looking for the right fit. The league wants to find the best markets to ensure the sport's growth, whether it's arenas, fan bases, or finances.
Although Pittsburgh doesn't have a century-long history of professional hockey like Detroit, the city is known for its almost passionate fan bases, which have supported the Pirates (MLB) and Steelers (NFL) since the early 1900s.
Pittsburgh would welcome a PWHL team with open arms if given the chance.
Additionally, Denver and Seattle are possibilities for a West expansion, while the top Canadian markets include Quebec City and Calgary.
Stay tuned for any updates about PWHL expansion, whether in Pittsburgh or not, as the league's growth is essential for the overall love and support of professional hockey in North America.
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