The Toronto Sceptres will enter the 2025-26 season with a fresh look to their roster. Some of the makeover came by choice, while the rest came through expansion. At every position however, the Sceptres are trying something new this season, and after a pair of first round exits from the PWHL playoffs, it's time for a new approach.

Toronto went big at the PWHL Draft selecting players like Emma Gentry, Clara Van Wieren, and Sara Hjalmarsson who add size, skill, and physicality and give Toronto a new look up front. 

On draft day, Toronto also made a blockbuster trade acquiring Ella Shelton from the New York Sirens in exchange for the third overall pick.

Offseason report cards are based not only on how each position and item is predicted to perform next season, but also on the offseason changes to the role. Here's a look.

There's no denying the loss of Sarah Nurse, Hannah Miller, and Izzy Daniel hurts up front. Toronto didn't find a comparable replacement, although rookie Emma Gentry could be a breakout prospect. The PWHL has proven it's more about chemistry and combinations than it is individual star power however, and Toronto's additions play into that. Daryl Watts remains their most potent offensive player, and Toronto will pray Natalie Spooner comes back to resemble her year one presence. Toronto will need to find an answer for their left side as depth at that position is slim. It's likely they keep Emma Maltais on the wing there and elevate their draft picks down the middle. Jesse Compher's emergence last year was promising, But Toronto will need one of Claire Dalton, Maggie Connors, or Emma Woods to elevate their game to involve more offense. 

This is a highly impressive group that will contribute on both sides of the puck. Renata Fast is arguably the best defender in the world, and she's joined by Ella Shelton, Savannah Harmon, Kali Flanagan, Allie Munroe, and Anna Kjellbin on Toronto's blueline. It's a deep and experienced group. Toronto's "second" pairing of Flanagan and Munroe has evolved into one of the league's most consistent duos. The addition of Ella Shelton makes this blueline dynamic, bigger, and easily one of, if not the best in the league. The lone question mark was their sixth slot, but re-signing Anna Kjellbin into that position makes it a top to bottom group capable of contributing.

Toronto has gone full tandem. Raygan Kirk and Elaine Chuli will fight for crease time with the hot hand getting the nod. Last year Kristen Campbell regressed from her inaugural season form, and the relationship in Toronto soured to the point the team was actively looking into the option to mutually terminate her contract. Instead, they found a trade partner with PWHL Vancouver and retained a chunk of Campbell's salary. Chuli won an Isobel Cup title backstopping the Toronto Six, winning PHF Goalie of the Year honors in 2022, being named an All-American in the NCAA, and winning U-18 World Championship gold with Canada. Toronto will count on the consistency the duo brings, which is what they lacked last season.

It's hard to question the experience and respect Troy Ryan holds in women's hockey. What he's yet to prove however, is that he can translate short term tournament success, to season long and playoff success. Toronto's coaching staff is experienced, and they've made difficult decisions when necessary. Ryan has the trust of his team, and the knowledge to get them over the hump. Will this be the season?

Toronto still has the veteran leadership of Blayre Turnbull, Fast, Shelton, Munroe, Flanagan, Spooner, and others. This team has also faced their share of adversity the last two seasons, which can only help them moving forward. This offseason, Toronto's additions all scream of character, and have no question marks in the off-ice department. It won't be easy, and there will likely be ups and downs this season for the Sceptres, but they are positioned well.