

PWHL Vancouver's roster is taking shape with their five signings during the exclusive signing window and their seven picks on the expansion draft. Here’s a look at their players.
Vancouver's Five Signings:
Claire Thompson, D, Minnesota Frost
One of the absolute best defenders in the league, Thompson was drafted 3rd overall in 2024. Her game with Minnesota didn't disappoint, as she finished third in scoring among defenders and contributed a league-leading 15 primary assists through the regular season and playoffs.
Sophie Jaques, D, Minnesota Frost
The top pair in the PWHL basically moved out west as Jaques joined Thompson in Vancouver. Jaques signed a three-year deal so she's locked up as she joins her third team in three years. Her game has grown and flourished, so Vancouver fans will get to watch her continue to improve (a scary thought for the rest of the league).
Sarah Nurse, F, Toronto Sceptres
Nurse was one of Toronto's foundational signings, but was left unprotected and was happily scooped up by Cara Gardner Morey. She battled injury last season, so a return to health is vital if she is to contribute what she is capable of. Sure to be an immediate fan favorite.
Emerance Maschmeyer, G, Ottawa Charge
Ottawa felt they had to protect Gwyneth Philips, so Vancouver gets the benefit of adding an outstanding goaltender who will be extra motivated to return from injury. At her best, Maschmeyer is simply one of the best goalies in the game.
Jennifer Gardiner, F, Montreal Victoire
This was a natural for both sides. Gardiner is thrilled to return to her hometown, and the team will have a blossoming star who showed that she can play with the best of the best. Gardiner broke out on Montreal's top line, and was also a breakout performer with Canada internationally.
The Vancouver lineup is a star-studded Canadian group already, and looks like it will have a top line, top defense pair, and top netminder right out of the gate.
Vancouver's Expansion Picks:
1. Ashton Bell, D, Ottawa Charge
Not protected by Ottawa, who surely knew she would be selected. A converted forward, she has the hockey sense to make great breakout passes and is a strong skater who knows when to jump into the offense. Bell has played for Canada at three world championships and one Olympics already. The Manitoba native will be a huge addition to the blue line in Vancouver.
2. Brooke McQuigge, F, Minnesota Frost
McQuigge brings a gritty, physical style that made her a valuable depth piece for Minnesota. She ranked fourth among rookies in scoring, with her eight goals trailing only New York's Fillier (13) and teammate Curl-Salemme (9). Her likely lower price tag makes her an intelligent pickup.
3. Abby Boreen, F, Montreal Victoire
Boreen has a lot of raw skill that could be extremely useful in a second- or third-line role. She was a big part of Minnesota’s first season as a reserve player, with five points in nine games and five impressive playoff games, and then she entered the draft where Montreal grabbed her in the third round. With the right linemates, Boreen can be a very effective and dangerous player.
4. Izzy Daniel, F, Toronto Sceptres
Another great young player who has huge upside and will be able to contribute immediately for Vancouver. She played anywhere from the first to the fourth line for the Sceptres, had seven points in and if given the right opportunity, she could be a real steal.
5. Gabby Rosenthal, F, New York Sirens
A rugged player who can contribute on both sides of the puck. She was slightly overlooked in this year's rookie class but showed her worth on a New York team that needed her versatility.
6. Denisa Krizova, F, Minnesota Frost
Krizova is a veteran player with a lot of experience who will fit Vancouver's third or fourth line. She plays playoff hockey all year long.
7. Sydney Bard, D, Boston Fleet
A standout rookie who held her own on the Boston blue line this past season, Bard will slot in to the bottom pair on a stacked Vancouver blue line.
Cara Gardner Morey added a lot of grit to the skilled group she had signed already. Boreen and McQuigge are both power forwards with a scoring touch, and Daniel could be ready to be a breakout star. With the blue line already looking crazy good, Vancouver added Ashton Bell just for good measure. A well-balanced group going into the entry draft and free agency.