The second best women's professional league in the world is set to drop the puck for the 2025-26 season and it's set to be a significant year for the SDHL. The league will shut down for a month in February for the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics. Following those Olympics, it's possible a large number of top Europeans may throw their hats into the ring to come to North America to join the PWHL.
The SDHL itself has reduced the number of non-Swedish trained players per team which will have an impact on the league itself, and the development of Swedish players, but the talent level remains high. When PWHL camps finish, another wave of players may look to claim a spot in the SDHL.
Nadia Mattivi, Lulea - The reigning Defender of the Year and a key piece of Italy's national team heading to the Olympics, Mattivi was the top scoring blueliner in the PWHL last season and will be in contention again this year for that honor. She'll be a defender PWHL teams will be interested in signing when the season is done.
Elisa Holopainen, Frolunda - After tying for the league lead in scoring last season as a first year player, Holopainen will look to take another step toward dominance again this year. Her physical play is the gap that remains between a successful transition to North America. Adding more physicality to her game will be crucial this year.
Viivi Vainikka, Brynas - Many thought she was headed to the PWHL last year, but Vainikka chose to return for the Olympic year. She's dynamic, has separation speed, and is capable of playing through the physicality. She'll be a star on a stacked Brynas team this season.
Petra Nieminen, Lulea - There's no player in the SDHL whose style matches the North American game better than Petra Nieminen. She's an intenational star. In the age of the PWHL, her legacy will be judged by whether or not she comes to North America. The power forward has a mean streak and will again be the SDHL's most intimidating offensive force, and a key piece to Finland's Olympic medal hopes.
Ema Tothova, HV71 - The big Slovak is headed to Ohio State, but first it's a stop in the SDHL to grow her game against stronger competition. Tothova is a key piece to Slovakia's international future, and this season is a paramount step in her development. On a weaker HV71 team she'll get plenty of opportunities.
Emma Soderberg, SDE - After struggling during both of her PWHL seasons with the Boston Fleet in limited starts, Soderberg is headed home in an Olympic year to claim a crease and regain her confidence. She could still be in the PWHL, and has the upside to return and make an impact. Few question her ability, and this is the year to show it.
Sanni Rantala, Frolunda - The young defender is already a cog for Finland's national team. She was the backbone of Frolunda's title run last year making quiet contributions at both ends of the ice. Rantala is a defender who could make the move to North America. She looks ready for a challenge after dominating in Europe.
Andrea Brandli, Frolunda - Brandli is the top non-NCAA goaltender outside the PWHL. She's established herself as an elite goaltender both in the SDHL and internationally with Switzerland. There's little for her to accomplish in Europe aside from winning an SDHL title, which will be her goal this season.
Linda Vocetkova, Djurgardens - One of Czechia's top young players who captained their U-18 national team at the World Championships last season, Vocetkova is headed to Colgate following in the footsteps of Kristyna Kaltounkova. She's a player Czechia will be paying close attention to this season with the Olympics approaching. There are big things coming for Vocetkova and this season is another step in that direction.
Hanna Thuvik, Brynas - The 23-year-old will suit up for a Brynas team that looks like a powerhouse and the preseason favorite to capture the SDHL crown this season. Thuvik plays the game the right way combining speed, a willingness to go to tough spaces, and creativity. It could be a breakout season for her offensively, but she impacts the game in other ways as well.
Sara Cajanova, Brynas - She's mobile, makes good first passes, and has established herself as one of Czechia's top defenders on the international stage. Cajanova could make the step to the PWHL, but at 22, might choose to stay in Europe to develop for another season or two.
Akane Shiga, Lulea - After a breakout season in the SDHL last year showing she has more offensive potential than Shiga was able to show as a PWHL rookie, the breakout turned to a difficult break in the World Championships. Seeing how Shiga can rebound from a significant injury this season will be a storyline to watch not only when considering a future return to the PWHL, but also when evaluating Japan's hopes at the 2026 Olympics.
Honourable Mention: Maddie Leidt, Moa Stridh, Lindsay Agnew, Ebba Hesselvall, Tereza Radova, Klara Peslarova, Stephanie Neatby, Ebba Hedqvist, Elin Svensson, Charlotte Akervik, Charli Kettlye, Neena Brick, Jenna Donohoe, Emma Forsgren, Hanna Olsson, Jennina Nylund, Noora Tulus, Sara Hjalmarsson