The 2024 PWHL Draft could look like there is a PWHL Ohio State with the number of Buckeyes set to be selected and challenge for roster spots next season.
It's unlikely any NCAA program will rival Ohio State when it comes to the number of players selected in the 2024 PWHL Draft.
Ohio State could see two players, Cayla Barnes and Hannah Bilka, selected in the first round of the draft.
Alongside Barnes, there's a possibility more than half of Ohio State's blueline from last season could be headed to the PWHL via the draft. Stephanie Markowski, Hadley Hartmetz, and Lauren Bernard are all candidates to challenge for roster spots next season. They each bring different traits that teams will need to weigh out when making decisions.
Markowski is likely the best bet to grab a roster spot given her two-way capabilities, as she thrives as a shot blocker in her zone, and can also contribute offensively. Hartmetz has perhaps the most offensive upside, but there are also question marks about her that could give teams a moment to pause.
Up front, Bilka is the headliner, but captain Jennifer Gardiner won't stay on the board long. She's a probably top three round pick and trailed on Bilka in points with Ohio State this season finishing her campaign with 45 points in 39 games. Gardiner is a big game player who saw time this year with Canada at the Rivalry Series and was Canada's final cut prior to the World Championships.
Had she entered the draft last year, Kelsey King would have been a player likely picked. She had a drastic drop in production this season, but plays a style that could lend itself to a fourth line checking role in the PWHL. If she isn't drafted, watch for King to compete voraciously for a roster spot as a free agent camp invite.
Finally, Raygan Kirk has been on Hockey Canada's radar and was one of the NCAA's top goaltenders last year, including a stellar NCAA final shutout performance.
She won't steal a starting job, and has an uphill battle for a backup role, but teams from across the league will be pitching for her services as a third goalie. She may benefit from going to Europe for a season to get starts before joining the PWHL, keeping her progress moving forward and bringing hope for additional roster spots through expansion in the future.