New York focused on youth and building from the net out. But did it leave them short up front? We look at what New York has, and what they need.
New York focused on youth and building from the net out. But did it leave them short up front? We look at what New York has, and what they need.
New York pieced together an intriguing roster through the PWHL Draft and first free agency period. Their blueline talent is impressive, and they have some underrated forwards, but will it be enough?
General manager Pascal Daoust and head coach Howie Draper still have work to do, but the bones of their roster are solid. One takeaway, is Daoust put together a markedly younger roster than other teams. Here's a look at what New York got, and what they still need.
Five Deep On The Blueline
When New York signed Micah Zandee-Hart leading more experienced blueliners on the market, it sparked a few conversations. When Daoust followed that by selecting Jamie Bourbonnais, Ella Shelton, Brooke Hobson, and Olivia Zafuto however, his tactic became clear, he wanted youth. His oldest blueliner is 26, and it's a core New York can build around.
Who will score up front?
It seems pretty clear up front, the answer to this question is Alex Carpenter, Abby Roque, and Jessie Eldridge. Unlike the depth of other forward groups however, this trio have not needed to drive offense themselves at the national level, although they're all highly effective producers. The ability to pair playmakers Chloe Aurard and Elizabeth Giguere with this trio will help in getting pucks to where they need to be, and Jill Saulnier can pull fans from her seat when she wants. Perhaps the hidden gem of this draft for New York is grabbing Jade Downie-Landry.
What does New York still need?
New York still needs scoring depth. They would be wise to target veteran producers who can play a physical role as their bottom line forwards of Kayla Vespa and Alexandra Labelle are excellent players, but few would agree they were the best available in rounds 13 and 15 respectively. Daoust can still go out and find upgrades to his forward group in Madison Packer, Mikyla Grant-Mentis, Sarah Bujold, Amanda Pelkey, Haley Skarupa, Kaitlyn Tougas, or Kelly Babstock. While there's technically only one roster spot left in New York's top 12, it would be a safe wager that 2-3 of these players could steal spots in camp from currently picked players, and work their way up the lineup.
Super Schroeder Takes The Net
There's a chance New York grabbed the best goaltender on the market, and a goalie who could end up as the best in the league. Corinne Schroeder is coming off a dazzling performance with the Boston Pride being named the PHF Goaltender of the Year. She was nearly unbeatable in Boston's crease last season. At the recent Canadian senior national team, she was the only netminder to not allow a goal. Schroeder is big, calm in the net, and competitive. Putting Abbey Levy in as support is a tall and steady tandem.