The frenzy may have slowed down, but it is a calm before a second storm? There's still plenty happening in PHF free agency.
The frenzy may have slowed down, but it is a calm before a second storm? There's still plenty happening in PHF free agency.
Free agency opened with a frenzy, but more than a month in, things are starting to mellow. For the most part, teams are slowly announcing players we've all known were signed for weeks.
That doesn't mean deals are still being done, it just means most teams have secured a core they feel comfortable with at this point, and are now going to be more patient, and more selective.
Here's a look at a number of topics still in the works this offseason:
What the status on Jennifer Wakefield?
We reported earlier this offseason that Canadian Olympic and World Championship gold medalist Jennifer Wakefield was close to signing with the Toronto Six. Talks continue, and it still appears this deal is in the works. Wakefield had eliminated other PHF teams who also kicked the tires on the six-foot power forward. What remained was the option to return to MoDo in the SDHL, or play for her hometown team in the Toronto Six. This deal won't be rushed to completion, especially given Toronto's current stance and positioning...more on that to come.
Let's Go Buffalo
Finally, the Buffalo Beauts have announced a few player signings, headlined by the return of Dominque Kremer, Summer-Rae Dobson, and Emma Nuutinen.
What comes next in Buffalo still remains a mystery, but it will likely involve cleaning up some of the now departed players from other organizations. It's long been discussed that USports standout Tatum Amy is headed to Buffalo, and Czechia captain Alena Mills has also been linked to the Beauts.
One name who may, or may not be returning to Buffalo is Mikyla Grant-Mentis who reportedly has been talking to other teams around the league. Losing their best player would be a huge hit to the Beauts. Buffalo also still needs a new head coach.
Is Toronto Ready For A Repeat?
Toronto has been relatively quiet. We know an overwhelming number of last year's Isobel Cup championship team will be back, although with Brittany Howard headed to the Boston Pride, and Michela Cava reportedly on her way out of town, the Six have some work to do up front. They held a free agent camp this past week, although the Six stated they had no plans to imminently sign any player from the camp. Two names worth watching, whether it's in Toronto or another PHF team are New Hampshire leading scorer Emily Pinto and University of Waterloo blueliner and All-Canadian Carley Olivier.
At this point, Toronto is waiting, patiently. They have many irons in the fire, specifically with players either in the PWHPA, or players considering the PWHPA. Tour or league, the announcement of the PWHPA's structure for next season will likely cause the next wave of movement in the PHF. Speaking of players in this category, some doubt has been cast on Sophie Jaques joining the Toronto Six...although it's not out of the question she still lands in the PHF...
Who's next off the NCAA list?
The list of NCAA players headed to the PHF is not complete yet. Some players, like Anneke Linser (Minnesota-Duluth), Catherine Skaja (Minnesota), Sandra Abstreiter (Providence), Naomi Rogge (Minnesota-Duluth) are confirmed or presumed to be done deals.
Others, like Madison Bizal and Abigail Boreen continue to be linked with teams as well.
Wisconsin netminder Cami Kronish could land one of the final goaltending jobs, as could Czechia netminer Blanka Skodova. Both however, are also entertaining offers from Europe.
Speaking of Goaltenders
A pair of North American goalies from the SDHL are in the mix for the final PHF goaltending jobs. Lauren Bench, has been rumored to be the player filling out the second half of the Montreal Force crease behind Corinne Schroeder.
The other name out there is Lindsey Post. Former SDHL goalie of the year, Post wants to return to North America after another stellar season with SDE. She was a USports champion and playoff MVP, and then spent two seasons in the CWHL before heading to Europe. Post would be a noticeable upgrade for many teams adding veteran security in net. Looking at what's left in the league, if the Buffalo Beauts have any eye on staying competitive, Post should be a contender there.
Minnesota Still On The Hunt For A Coach
The Minnesota Whitecaps are still on the hunt for a new head coach. General manager Chi-Yin Tse has been diving into the coaching pool talking to candidates while still filling out his roster. Whomever comes in will have a nearly full roster to look at and begin planning for.
Speaking of players in Minnesota, one has to wonder if any chatter has happened between Allie Thunstrom and her former team. Thunstrom is one of the PHF's longstanding stars and she's been chatting with multiple teams in the league. Thunstrom has options, likely getting to choose her own destination.