Hannah Miller has transformed from a reliable depth scorer into the undisputed offensive leader of the Toronto Sceptres. Her rise has been nothing short of remarkable, helping propel Toronto from the league’s basement to a playoff position. Once an under-the-radar contributor, Miller is now a go-to player in crucial moments.
From Late Draft Pick to Franchise Cornerstone
Miller’s ascent is even more impressive when you consider where she started. Drafted 74th overall in the 13th round of the 2023 PWHL Draft, she was far from a household name. But on June 21, 2024, the Sceptres signed her to a one-year contract extension—one of the shrewdest off-season moves the franchise has made.
The comparison to Spooner stems from the sheer surprise of it all. Few expected this level of production from Miller, just as Spooner stunned the league last year by finishing as the top scorer with 20 goals and 27 points in 24 games.
Meanwhile, Spooner, recently back from a knee injury, is still working her way into form. While she’s already contributing to Toronto’s power play, she has just one assist since returning—a stark contrast to last season’s dominance.
(As of Feb. 25, Miller is day-to-day with a lower-body injury. She missed Toronto's game against Montreal which was a battle for first place. However, with the team going into a week-long break, it was thought that the extra rest would help).
A Season of Breakthroughs
The numbers tell the story of Miller’s breakout campaign. Last season, she was a solid secondary scorer, finishing with 14 points (7G, 7A) in 23 games. This year, she’s surpassed those totals in fewer games: in 20 games, she has 10 goals, 12 assists, and 22 points.
Not only is she leading the PWHL in scoring, but she’s also been named one of the league’s three stars of the week in back-to-back weeks. Four of her goals have come on the power play, a testament to both her finishing ability and the Sceptres’ dramatic improvement in that area. Toronto’s power play, now clicking at 33.9%, was operating at nearly 50% before their most recent game.
A key factor in Miller’s breakout? She’s shooting more—and scoring more efficiently. Last season, she took 39 shots in 24 games. This year, she’s already fired 45 in just 20 games. Her shooting accuracy has also jumped from 17.9% to a lethal 22.2%, making her one of the most dangerous forwards in the league.
Delivering in the Clutch
Big moments don’t faze Miller. She scored the game-winner in Toronto’s season opener and netted the game-tying goal against Ottawa. Her impact was especially evident in the Battle on Bay Street against the New York Sirens at Scotiabank Arena.
With Toronto struggling in last place and New York riding a winning streak, Miller delivered a stunning breakaway goal that shifted the game—and arguably, the Sceptres’ season. It was a defining moment for a player who has proven time and again that she thrives when the stakes are highest.
When asked about her ability to come through in key situations, she remained characteristically humble:
"A lot of it comes down to opportunity—being put in those situations by the coaching staff. Fans see the goal, but there’s so much that happens before that, especially on the power play. I’ve just been fortunate to finish off those plays a few times this season."
Versatility and Leadership
Miller’s ability to play both wing and center has made her an invaluable asset for the Sceptres, and she’s now firmly established as the team’s top-line center. She’s not just an offensive weapon—she wins face-offs, kills penalties, and leads the power play, making her a true 200-foot player.
A Proven Scorer at Every Level
Before making her mark in the PWHL, Miller was a standout at St. Lawrence University, where she posted 123 points in 124 games (42G, 80A) from 2014-18. She also boasts an impressive international résumé, winning back-to-back gold medals with Canada at the U18 World Championships in 2012-13 and 2013-14.
As the Sceptres continue their push up the standings, Miller’s consistency and leadership will be critical. She’s not just having a breakout season—she’s proving she belongs among the league’s elite.