PWHL Draft 2025: Sirens Gear Up for No. 1 Pick
The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) is buzzing with excitement as it approaches its much-anticipated draft on June 24, 2025, at 7 PM ET in Ottawa, Ontario. After two consecutive last-place finishes, the New York Sirens have secured the coveted No. 1 pick, igniting speculation about their choice among a pool of exceptional talent.
An Uncertain Top Pick
Unlike last year’s clear-cut choice in Sarah Fillier, the 2025 draft presents a landscape of uncertainty, with three standout college players emerging as potential No. 1 picks:
- Kristyna Kaltounkova (Colgate)
- Casey O’Brien (Wisconsin)
- Haley Winn (Clarkson)
Top Prospects to Monitor
Additional prospects making waves in the draft include:
- Nicole Gosling
- Natalie Mlynkova
- Rory Guilday
These players are set to reshape the future of their new teams in the league.
Draft Details
When and Where
The PWHL Draft will take place on June 24, 2025, and will involve eight teams, including two expansion franchises: PWHL Vancouver and PWHL Seattle. A total of 48 players will be chosen in a six-round format.
The draft order for the initial selection will be:
- New York Sirens
- Boston Fleet
- Toronto Scepters
- Montreal Victoire
- Ottawa Charge
- Minnesota Frost
- PWHL Vancouver
- PWHL Seattle
After the first round, the expansion teams will alternate selections while the order for the other six teams remains constant.
Sirens Roster Update
The Sirens experienced significant roster changes after losing key players like Alex Carpenter and Corinne Schroeder to PWHL Seattle. However, they have managed to sign substantial contracts with several returning players, such as:
- Taylor Girard
- Lauren Bernard
- Kayla Vespa
- Savannah Norcross
Additionally, Jincy Roese, a former alternate captain of the Ottawa Charge, has joined the team.
Looking Forward
General Manager Pascal Daoust has expressed confidence in the existing defensive lineup, which includes protected players like Ella Shelton and Micah Zandee-Hart. The team’s focus for the upcoming draft will likely be on enhancing its forward capability alongside Fillier.
Who Will Be the No. 1 Pick?
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Kristyna Kaltounkova
Kaltounkova’s resume is impressive, boasting the record for the most goals in Colgate’s history and significant experience playing internationally for the Czech Republic. In her college career, she ranked No. 6 in goals per game, averaging 0.70.“She is built for the PWHL game,” praised Casey Ditzel, a Collgate rival announcer. “A physical forward capable of dominating puck possession, she also has the potential to score 50 goals.”
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Casey O’Brien
The reigning Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award winner, O’Brien led the NCAA with 88 points and 62 assists, elevating her status significantly.
Casey O’Brien #26 of the Wisconsin Badgers -
Haley Winn
If the Sirens opt for defense, Winn is a prime candidate. A First Team All-American, she’s also proven her versatility, excelling in assists and helping the USA secure gold at recent championships.“A generational talent,” according to Ditzel, “Winn possesses skating abilities rarely seen in women’s hockey.”
Potential Picks for No. 9
Following the No. 1 selection, the Sirens will also need to strategize for their No. 9 pick. Some options include:
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Michelle Karvinen: A 35-year-old veteran from Finland, she is a three-time Olympic bronze medalist and seasoned competitor in European leagues.
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Jenna Buglioni: Known for her tenacity, Buglioni has a decorated college career but is undersized at 5-foot-3.
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Nicole Gosling: A notable defender and part of the Canadian national team, she brings potential as a solid foundation for the Sirens’ defensive unit.
- Ella Huber: Although Abbey Murphy chose not to enter, Huber still stands out as a highly skilled prospect from Minnesota, tied for No. 6 in the nation in assists.
Goalkeeping Future
With the departure of Schroeder, the Sirens may prioritize free agency to secure a starting goalie but could also consider a developmental goalie in the later rounds to partner with Kayle Osborne.
Conclusion
The 2025 PWHL Draft is pivotal for the New York Sirens as they seek to rejuvenate their roster following years of struggle. With a solid strategy and an eye on upcoming talent, the Sirens aim to emerge from the draft with game-changers who can significantly impact their future in the league.
For updates on the PWHL Draft and more insights on player prospects, follow reputable sources and the official PWHL website.
