Four Rising Defenders To Watch For The PWHL Draft

Opportunities to scout for the 2024 PWHL Draft are rapidly coming to a close. With the NCAA and U Sports playoffs underway and only the World Championships remaining after the collegiate national championships end, time is running out for prospects to showcase their talent.

Defenders often take more time to assess, and if they are defensively inclined, sometimes they can be overlooked in favor of higher scoring blueliners.

Here's a look at five defenders who are PWHL Draft prospects who've seen their stock rise in the last month.

Dayle Ross, St. Cloud State - Steady and physical, Ross has flown under the radar in the powerhouse WCHA. She skates well and could be a solid addition who can play third pairing minutes and kill penalties in the PWHL.

Nina Jobst-Smith, Minnesota-Duluth - Has excelled internationally for Germany and has been a foundational piece for Minnesota-Duluth throughout her career. Few give Jobst-Smith the accolades she deserves, but she sees the ice well, doesn't shy away from tough spots, and is consistent.

Skylar Fontaine, ZSC Lions - A four-time All-American with Northeastern, Fontaine is one of the most decorated players to come through NCAA hockey in the last decade. She was twice named a Patty Kazmaier top ten finalist, and was the Hockey East Defender of the Year three times. She's spent the past three seasons in Switzerland where she was named the Swiss league's Best Defender last year. After her visa was declined to return to Switzerland next season, the door has opened wide for a potential PWHL stop.

Tamara Giaquinto, Boston University - The Boston University captain has shown offensive growth. She knows how to defend, and if she can continue to develop her offensive skills, she could play valuable depth minutes in the league. Named a Hockey East First Team All-Star this season.