New York Sirens Make Waves in PWHL Draft: Key Acquisitions for Future Success

The New York Sirens seized the spotlight during the recent PWHL draft, strategically bolstering their roster with two standout players: Kristyna Kaltounkova and Casey O’Brien. These selections, including the No. 1 and No. 3 picks, set the stage for an exciting new chapter for the Sirens.

Early Moves for the Sirens

In a pivotal move, the Sirens opted for Kristyna Kaltounkova, a star forward from Colgate University, as the first overall pick. This decision reflects a strong commitment to enhancing their offensive capabilities, especially after the departure of former key players Alex Carpenter and Jessie Eldridge. The team opted not to protect these players during the exclusive signing window and expansion draft, paving the way for new talent to fill the void.

Kristyna Kaltounkova: A Proven Scorer

Kaltounkova, hailing from Vlasim, Czechia, finished her last season among the top 10 goal scorers in the nation. Throughout her remarkable tenure at Colgate, she scored an astonishing 111 goals, earning her place as a top contender in women’s collegiate hockey.

"It doesn’t matter what role I play, I’m just happy to jump in and help as much as I can. Make an impact immediately," Kaltounkova stated shortly after her selection.

Casey O’Brien: Adding More Firepower

The Sirens didn’t stop with Kaltounkova. They traded defender Ella Shelton to secure the No. 3 pick, which they used to select Casey O’Brien from Wisconsin. O’Brien commanded attention last season, leading the nation with 88 points and 62 assists. Her exceptional performance earned her the accolade of the top women’s college hockey player in the United States.

"I’m super honored that New York traded up for me. It’s pretty special and this just caps off an amazing year," O’Brien expressed, excited about the opportunity.

Additional Selections to Strengthen the Roster

Alongside their stellar first-round picks, the Sirens made a series of additional selections, showcasing their deep commitment to building a formidable lineup for the upcoming season. Here’s a breakdown of their draft picks:

• Second Round: Anne Cherkowski (Clarkson University)
• Third Round: Makenna Webster (Ohio State University)
• 25th Overall: Dayle Ross (St. Cloud State University)
• 27th Overall: Maddi Wheeler (Ohio State University)
• 28th Overall: Callie Shanahan (Boston University) – acquired via trade with Montreal
• Fifth Round: Anna Bargman (Yale University)
• Sixth Round: Kaley Doyle (Quinnipiac University)

These selections reflect a strategic approach to develop a well-rounded team, incorporating both offensive talent and defensive strength.

Looking Ahead

The New York Sirens are clearly setting an aggressive tone for their future, with Kaltounkova and O’Brien expected to lead the charge. As they prepare for the next season, expectations will certainly heighten around their performance and potential postseason success.

For those interested in women’s hockey, follow PWHL news and keep an eye on the Sirens as they embark on this exciting new journey.

Conclusion

With their dynamic roster changes, the New York Sirens are poised to become a powerhouse in the PWHL. The impactful additions of Kaltounkova and O’Brien demonstrate the team’s commitment to striving for excellence and bringing competitive energy to the ice.

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