The NCAA’s most prolific goal-scorer brings her elite attack mentality to Seattle, securing the franchise’s future as the first 2026 draft pick to join the professional ranks.
The Seattle Torrent today announced that second overall pick from the 2026 PWHL Draft forward Abbey Murphy has been signed to a two-year contract through the 2027-28 season. Murphy is the first member of the team’s draft class to sign ahead of the 2026-27 campaign and was the first of six players chosen by the Seattle Torrent.
“Abbey will make an immediate impact in this league with her grit, creativity, and attack mentality,” said Meghan Turner, Torrent General Manager. “This two-year contract gives us the ability to develop with her as she establishes her identity at this level and as we build for future seasons. This is something we’ve been looking forward to in our preparation for the year, and we’re ready to get her on the ice in November.”
Murphy set several records with the University of Minnesota. She amassed 261 points (143G, 118A) in 171 games, finishing as Minnesota’s all-time leader in goals scored and ranking second all-time in points.
Murphy, 24, was also a two-time captain, and put together her finest season as a graduate student in 2025-26, finishing with career highs in goals (40) and points (66) across 31 appearances while leading the nation in points per game (2.13) and goals per game (1.29). She was named a top three finalist for the Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award and garnered First Team All-American and WCHA Forward of the Year honors among her accolades.
The Evergreen Park, IL native has represented the United States at each of the last two Olympic Winter Games, earning a gold medal at Milano Cortina 2026 and a silver medal at Beijing 2022. She has also earned four medals (two gold, two silver) in IIHF Women’s World Championship competition.
“I’m incredibly grateful and excited to officially start this journey in Seattle,” said Murphy. “Getting to spend time in the city this summer, meet our fans and get a feel for the community made me even more excited to call Seattle home. I can’t wait to take the ice at Climate Pledge Arena with this group and play in front of the loudest and best fans in the league. I’m ready to get to work. Let’s go, Torrent!”
With the signing, the Torrent now have 17 players under contract for the upcoming season.
