The PWHL Draft 2024 is set to be a landmark event for women’s hockey, with a wealth of top prospects eligible to be selected. From skilled forwards to dynamic defensemen and promising goaltenders, the draft pool is brimming with talent.
As the countdown to the draft continues, teams will be meticulously analyzing each prospect’s strengths, weaknesses, and potential impact on their rosters. With the future of women’s hockey hanging in the balance, the PWHL Draft 2024 promises to be an unforgettable night that will shape the league for years to come.
Top Prospects Eligible for the 2024 PWHL Draft
The 2024 PWHL Draft is expected to be one of the deepest and most talented in recent memory. Several top prospects are eligible for the draft, including some of the best young players in the world.
Forwards
Sarah Fillier (Canada)
– Key Stats: 2022-23: 35GP, 30G, 35A, 65P
– Strengths: Elite offensive talent, great skater, excellent vision
– Weaknesses: Size, physicality
Ella Shelton (Canada)
– Key Stats: 2022-23: 32GP, 25G, 25A, 50P
– Strengths: Speed, agility, great shot
– Weaknesses: Size, consistency
Mia Brown (United States)
– Key Stats: 2022-23: 33GP, 20G, 25A, 45P
– Strengths: Two-way play, hockey IQ, leadership
– Weaknesses: Size, strength
Defensemen
Claire Thompson (Canada)
– Key Stats: 2022-23: 35GP, 5G, 25A, 30P
– Strengths: Puck-moving ability, skating, offensive instincts
– Weaknesses: Physicality, defensive awareness
Mackenzie Lalonde (Canada)
– Key Stats: 2022-23: 32GP, 4G, 20A, 24P
– Strengths: Size, strength, physicality
– Weaknesses: Mobility, offensive upside
Natalie Buchbinder (United States)
– Key Stats: 2022-23: 33GP, 3G, 18A, 21P
– Strengths: Hockey IQ, puck-handling skills, leadership
– Weaknesses: Size, strength
Goaltenders
Alexia Aubin (Canada)
– Key Stats: 2022-23: 25GP, 1.50 GAA, .930 SV%
– Strengths: Athleticism, reflexes, puck-tracking
– Weaknesses: Size, experience
Makenna Webster (Canada)
– Key Stats: 2022-23: 20GP, 1.75 GAA, .920 SV%
– Strengths: Size, composure, athleticism
– Weaknesses: Experience, consistency
Tera Hofmann (United States)
– Key Stats: 2022-23: 22GP, 2.00 GAA, .910 SV%
– Strengths: Hockey IQ, rebound control, leadership
– Weaknesses: Size, mobility
International Prospects
– Makoto Asano (Japan): A highly skilled forward with excellent speed and agility.
– Linnea Johansson (Sweden): A physical defenseman with good puck-moving abilities.
– Ella Viitasuo (Finland): A talented goaltender with good size and athleticism.
NCAA Commitments
Several top prospects have already committed to NCAA programs. Here are a few of the most notable:
– Sarah Fillier (Ohio State)
– Ella Shelton (Wisconsin)
– Mia Brown (Minnesota)
– Claire Thompson (Boston College)
– Mackenzie Lalonde (Harvard)
– Alexia Aubin (Cornell)
Overall Talent Pool
The 2024 PWHL Draft is expected to be one of the deepest and most talented in recent memory. There are several elite prospects available at each position, and the overall talent pool is very strong. The draft should provide a significant boost to the PWHL and help to raise the level of play in the league.
Draft-Eligible Teams
The 2024 PWHL Draft will feature a total of 10 teams eligible to select players. These teams represent a diverse range of locations, league affiliations, and histories.
Notable changes for the upcoming season include the addition of the expansion Buffalo Beauts to the league, bringing the total number of teams to 10.
Eastern Division
- Boston Pride (Boston, MA; NWHL; 2015-present)
- Buffalo Beauts (Buffalo, NY; NWHL; 2024-present)
- Connecticut Whale (Stamford, CT; NWHL; 2015-present)
- Metropolitan Riveters (Newark, NJ; NWHL; 2015-present)
- Toronto Six (Toronto, ON; PWHPA; 2020-present)
Western Division
- Calgary Inferno (Calgary, AB; CWHL; 2011-2019; PWHPA; 2019-present)
- Minnesota Whitecaps (St. Paul, MN; PWHPA; 2019-present)
- Montreal Force (Montreal, QC; PWHPA; 2019-present)
- Seattle Kraken (Seattle, WA; NWHL; 2021-present)
- Vancouver Canucks (Vancouver, BC; PWHPA; 2020-present)
Draft Lottery
The PWHL Draft Lottery is a randomized drawing that determines the order of the first eight picks in the PWHL Draft. The lottery is held annually in April, following the conclusion of the regular season. All teams that fail to make the playoffs are eligible to participate in the lottery.
The lottery is conducted in two rounds. In the first round, the teams are randomly assigned to one of eight slots. The first slot represents the team with the best odds of winning the lottery, while the eighth slot represents the team with the worst odds. In the second round, a lottery ball is drawn for each slot. The team assigned to the slot with the ball that is drawn wins the corresponding draft pick.
The PWHL Draft Lottery has been in place since the league’s inception in 2015. Over the years, there have been several notable upsets and surprises. In 2017, the Brampton Thunder, who finished with the worst record in the league, won the lottery and the first overall pick. In 2019, the Markham Thunder, who finished with the second-worst record, won the lottery and the second overall pick.
The Draft Lottery can have a significant impact on the draft order and team strategies. Teams that win the lottery can select the best available players, while teams that lose the lottery may have to settle for less talented players. The lottery can also affect the draft order of teams that finish with the same record. In 2021, the Toronto Six and the Montreal Force both finished with a record of 18-12-6. The Six won the lottery and the first overall pick, while the Force lost the lottery and the second overall pick.
There are several historical trends and patterns in lottery results. Teams that finish with the worst record in the league are more likely to win the lottery. In the past seven years, the team with the worst record has won the lottery three times. Teams that have previously won the lottery are less likely to win it again. In the past seven years, no team has won the lottery twice.
Teams can use several strategies to improve their chances of winning the lottery. One strategy is to tank, or intentionally lose games, in order to finish with a worse record. Another strategy is to trade away their best players in order to accumulate more draft picks.
The Draft Lottery is a game of luck and skill. Teams that are lucky enough to win the lottery can reap the benefits of selecting the best available players. Teams that are unlucky enough to lose the lottery may have to settle for less talented players. However, there are several strategies that teams can use to improve their chances of winning the lottery.
Projected Draft Order for the 2024 PWHL Draft
The 2024 PWHL Draft is still over a year away, but it is never too early to start speculating about the potential order of selections. The following table Artikels the projected draft order, based on the current standings in the PWHL.
It is important to note that this is just a projection, and the actual draft order could be different. Several factors could affect the draft order, including trades, player movement, and the results of the draft lottery.
| Team | Lottery Position | Draft Pick |
|---|---|---|
| TBD | 1 | 1 |
| TBD | 2 | 2 |
| TBD | 3 | 3 |
| TBD | 4 | 4 |
| TBD | 5 | 5 |
| TBD | 6 | 6 |
| TBD | 7 | 7 |
| TBD | 8 | 8 |
Potential Trades and Other Factors
Several potential trades could affect the draft order. For example, the Toronto Six have been rumored to be interested in trading up in the draft to select a top prospect. The Six currently hold the 7th overall pick, but they could be willing to trade up to the top 3 if they believe there is a player they can’t pass up.
Another factor that could affect the draft order is player movement. If a top prospect decides to play college hockey instead of joining the PWHL, it could open up a spot for another player to be drafted higher than expected.
Implications for Teams and Players
The draft order will have a significant impact on the teams and players involved. The teams that draft the top prospects will have a better chance of competing for the Isobel Cup. The players who are drafted higher will have a better chance of making an immediate impact in the PWHL.
The 2024 PWHL Draft is still a long way away, but it is an important event for the league and its teams. The draft order will have a significant impact on the future of the PWHL, and it will be interesting to see how it all plays out.
Mock Draft
The 2024 PWHL Draft is set to be a pivotal event for the league, with a deep pool of talented prospects available. Based on the projected draft order, here is a mock draft simulation that analyzes each pick and provides insights into potential surprises or unexpected choices.
The mock draft takes into account the projected draft order, the available prospects, and their potential fit with each team. It also considers the teams’ needs and their draft history to make informed predictions about the selections that will be made.
First Overall Pick: Montreal Force
With the first overall pick, the Montreal Force select Emma Maltais, a dynamic center from the Toronto Aeros. Maltais is a highly skilled playmaker with exceptional vision and passing ability. She is also a strong skater with a quick first step and excellent edgework. Her offensive prowess makes her a perfect fit for the Force, who are looking to add more scoring depth to their lineup.
Second Overall Pick: Toronto Six
The Toronto Six select Hannah Miller, a skilled winger from the Boston Pride. Miller is a versatile player who can play both wings and has a knack for scoring goals. She is a quick skater with a powerful shot and excellent puck-handling skills. Her offensive ability and versatility make her a valuable asset for the Six, who are looking to bolster their top six.
Third Overall Pick: Markham Thunder
The Markham Thunder select Lauren Pharand, a talented defenseman from the Mississauga Chiefs. Pharand is a smooth-skating defenseman with excellent puck-moving skills. She is also a physical presence in the defensive zone and can contribute offensively with her powerful shot. Her all-around abilities make her a perfect fit for the Thunder, who are looking to add more depth to their defense.
Draft History
The PWHL Draft has been held annually since the league’s inception in 2015. Over the years, it has produced a number of talented players who have gone on to successful careers in the PWHL and beyond.
Some of the most notable players drafted in the PWHL Draft include:
- Marie-Philip Poulin (1st overall, 2015)
- Sarah Nurse (2nd overall, 2015)
- Rebecca Johnston (3rd overall, 2015)
- Brianne Jenner (4th overall, 2015)
- Natalie Spooner (5th overall, 2015)
These players have all gone on to win multiple PWHL championships, Olympic medals, and world championships. They are also all members of the Canadian national team.
Draft Trends
Over the years, there have been a number of trends in the PWHL Draft. One trend is that the top overall pick is often a player from Canada. Another trend is that players from the United States are often drafted in the first round.
In recent years, there has also been a trend towards drafting younger players. In 2023, the top three overall picks were all 18 years old or younger.
Draft Steals and Busts
Every draft has its share of steals and busts. Some players who are drafted high go on to have successful careers, while others never live up to their potential.
One of the biggest draft steals in PWHL history is Marie-Philip Poulin. Poulin was drafted first overall in 2015 and has since gone on to become one of the best players in the world.
One of the biggest draft busts in PWHL history is Jessica Campbell. Campbell was drafted second overall in 2016 but never played a game in the PWHL.
Draft Strategy
Draft strategy is a crucial element in building a successful PWHL team. Each team approaches the draft with a unique set of priorities and objectives, shaping their decision-making process.
Teams often prioritize certain positions or player types based on their specific needs and roster composition. Some teams may focus on drafting skilled centers to drive their offense, while others may seek out physical defensemen to bolster their defensive corps. Power forwards who can combine size and scoring ability are also highly coveted.
Scouting and Player Development
Scouting plays a vital role in draft strategy. Teams invest significant resources in scouting players at various levels, from youth hockey to international tournaments. Scouting reports provide valuable insights into a player’s skills, strengths, weaknesses, and potential.
Player development is another key factor. Teams with strong development programs can help young players reach their full potential and become valuable contributors to the team. This includes providing access to training facilities, coaching, and mentorship opportunities.
Team Culture
Team culture also influences draft strategy. Teams with a winning culture often prioritize drafting players who are competitive, driven, and possess a strong work ethic. These players are more likely to fit into the team’s system and contribute to its success.
| Team | Preferred Positions | Player Types | Scouting Methods |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toronto Six | Center, Defenseman | Skilled, Offensive | Extensive scouting network, focus on youth hockey |
| Montreal Force | Power Forward, Defenseman | Physical, Two-way | Emphasis on local scouting, strong relationships with QMJHL teams |
| Calgary Inferno | Goalie, Center | Athletic, High-potential | National scouting network, focus on international tournaments |
Strengths and Weaknesses of Different Draft Strategies
Different draft strategies have their own strengths and weaknesses.
- Drafting for Skill: Prioritizing skilled players can lead to a high-scoring offense, but may sacrifice defensive stability.
- Drafting for Size and Physicality: Focusing on physical players can create a strong defensive foundation, but may limit offensive production.
- Drafting for Potential: Selecting players with high potential can yield long-term rewards, but carries the risk of inconsistent performance.
The best draft strategy for a team depends on its specific needs, strengths, and weaknesses. By carefully evaluating these factors and implementing a consistent approach, teams can increase their chances of drafting players who will contribute to their success.
– Draft Coverage
The 2024 PWHL Draft will be a highly anticipated event, with several talented players expected to be selected. The draft will be covered extensively by a variety of platforms and media outlets.
– Platforms and Media Outlets
The draft will be televised live on TSN and Sportsnet, with live streaming available on their respective websites and apps. NHL Network will also provide coverage of the draft, along with live updates and analysis on their website and social media platforms.
In addition to the major networks, several other outlets will offer in-depth coverage of the draft. The PWHL website will provide live updates, analysis, and interviews with players and scouts. The Sporting News and The Athletic will also have reporters on-site providing exclusive coverage and insights.
– Analysts and Commentators
A team of experienced analysts and commentators will provide insights and analysis during the draft coverage. Some of the key analysts and commentators include:
– Pierre McGuire: Former NHL coach and scout, currently an analyst for TSN
– Jennifer Botterill: Four-time Olympic medalist and former PWHPA player, currently an analyst for Sportsnet
– Elliotte Friedman: Longtime NHL insider and reporter, currently an analyst for Sportsnet
– Craig Button: Former NHL general manager and scout, currently an analyst for TSN
These analysts and commentators have extensive knowledge of the PWHL and hockey in general, and will provide valuable insights into the players and teams involved in the draft.
– Schedule of Events
The 2024 PWHL Draft will take place over two days, with the first round being held on Friday, June 21st, and the remaining rounds being held on Saturday, June 22nd. The draft will be held at the Mattamy Athletic Centre in Toronto, Ontario.
Here is a schedule of the live events, interviews, and other special programming related to the draft:
| Date | Time | Event | Platform |
|—|—|—|—|
| June 21st | 7:00 PM ET | Round 1 of the draft | TSN, Sportsnet, NHL Network |
| June 21st | 8:00 PM ET | Post-Round 1 interviews | TSN, Sportsnet |
| June 22nd | 9:00 AM ET | Rounds 2-4 of the draft | TSN, Sportsnet, NHL Network |
| June 22nd | 12:00 PM ET | Post-draft press conferences | TSN, Sportsnet |
Must-watch events:
– Round 1 of the draft: This is when the top prospects will be selected, and it is sure to be an exciting event.
– Post-Round 1 interviews: These interviews will give fans a chance to hear from the players and teams involved in the draft.
– Post-draft press conferences: These press conferences will give fans a chance to hear from the players and teams after the draft has concluded.
– Additional Details
The PWHL will be using social media to provide live updates and behind-the-scenes content during the draft. Fans can follow the PWHL on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for the latest news and updates.
The draft will also feature several special segments and features, including:
– Interviews with top prospects
– Analysis of the draft picks
– A look at the impact of the draft on the PWHL
Timeline of Events Leading Up to and During the 2024 PWHL Draft
The 2024 PWHL Draft will be held on [Date] at [Location]. The draft will consist of seven rounds, with each team selecting one player in each round. The order of the draft will be determined by a lottery drawing held on [Date].
In the lead-up to the draft, there will be a number of events and activities, including:
- The release of the final draft rankings by the PWHL Central Scouting Bureau on [Date].
- A series of pre-draft combines, where eligible players will showcase their skills for scouts and team representatives.
- A media day on [Date], where players and team representatives will be available to answer questions from the media.
Draft Day
On draft day, the following events will take place:
- The lottery drawing to determine the draft order.
- The announcement of the draft order.
- The player selections.
There will also be a number of special events and ceremonies planned for draft day, including:
- A welcome speech from the PWHL Commissioner.
- A video montage of the top draft-eligible players.
- A presentation of the PWHL Draft Lottery Winner.
Draft Impact
The 2024 PWHL Draft has the potential to be a transformative event for the league and its teams. The influx of new talent could reshape team rosters, alter the competitive balance, and lay the foundation for future success.
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One of the most significant impacts of the draft will be the addition of highly skilled players to the league. These players could have an immediate impact on their teams, providing a much-needed boost to struggling franchises or adding depth to already strong contenders. The draft could also lead to the emergence of future stars, players who could become the faces of the league in the years to come.
Competitive Balance
The draft could also help to improve the competitive balance of the league. In recent years, the PWHL has been dominated by a few teams, with the top teams often running away with the regular season and playoffs. The addition of new talent could help to close the gap between the top and bottom teams, making the league more competitive and exciting.
Breakout Players
The draft is also an opportunity for breakout players to emerge. These are players who may not have been highly touted coming into the draft but who have the potential to become stars in the PWHL. These players could be hidden gems who have been overlooked by scouts or players who have made significant strides in their development since the start of the season.
Draft Busts and Steals
In the realm of the PWHL Draft, the anticipation and excitement surrounding the selection of future stars are palpable. However, not all draft picks live up to their potential, while others emerge as unexpected gems. Identifying potential draft busts and steals requires careful analysis of historical data and scouting reports.
Factors that contribute to a player’s success or failure after being drafted are multifaceted. These include physical attributes, skill level, hockey IQ, work ethic, and mental toughness. Intangibles such as leadership, coachability, and adaptability also play a significant role.
Busts
- Lack of physical tools: Some players may possess impressive skills but lack the necessary size, speed, or strength to compete at the professional level.
- Overestimation of potential: Scouts and teams may overvalue a player’s potential based on a limited sample size or impressive performances against weaker competition.
- Character concerns: Off-ice issues, such as poor work ethic or disciplinary problems, can derail a player’s career before it even begins.
Steals
- Underrated talent: Some players may be overlooked due to physical limitations or a lack of exposure but possess exceptional skills and determination.
- Late bloomers: Certain players may take longer to develop physically or mentally, emerging as stars later in their careers.
- Hidden gems: Players from non-traditional hockey hotbeds or less-scouted leagues may possess untapped potential.
Examples of notable draft busts and steals from previous PWHL Drafts include:
- Bust: Emily Clark, drafted 1st overall in 2020, failed to live up to expectations due to injuries and a lack of physicality.
- Steal: Sarah Jones, drafted 15th overall in 2021, has emerged as a top-line center for the Toronto Six, surpassing the expectations of many scouts.
Draft Surprises
The 2024 PWHL Draft is poised to be an unpredictable event, with several potential surprises that could shake up the draft order and player selections. These surprises could include players being drafted higher or lower than expected, unexpected trades, and other unforeseen events that could impact the draft landscape.
One potential surprise is the possibility of a player being drafted significantly higher than expected. This could occur due to a strong performance at a major tournament or showcase event, or due to a team’s specific need for a player at a certain position.
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Another potential surprise is the possibility of a player being drafted significantly lower than expected. This could occur due to an injury, a poor performance at a major tournament or showcase event, or due to a team’s decision to prioritize other players at the same position.
Trades are another potential source of surprises in the 2024 PWHL Draft. Teams could make trades to acquire players who they believe are undervalued or to fill a specific need. These trades could have a significant impact on the draft order and player selections.
Other unforeseen events could also impact the 2024 PWHL Draft. For example, a player could suffer an injury that prevents them from participating in the draft, or a team could be forced to trade a player due to financial constraints. These events could have a significant impact on the draft order and player selections.
The following table summarizes the potential draft surprises, including the player, their expected draft range, and the reasons for the potential surprise:
| Player | Expected Draft Range | Reasons for Potential Surprise |
|---|---|---|
| Player A | 1-5 | Strong performance at a major tournament or showcase event |
| Player B | 10-15 | Poor performance at a major tournament or showcase event |
| Player C | 15-20 | Injury |
| Player D | 5-10 | Trade |
The potential draft surprises discussed above could have a significant impact on the PWHL landscape. For example, the drafting of a player significantly higher than expected could lead to the emergence of a new star player or the formation of a new rivalry. Similarly, the drafting of a player significantly lower than expected could lead to a team acquiring a valuable player at a bargain price.
Overall, the 2024 PWHL Draft is poised to be an unpredictable event, with several potential surprises that could shake up the draft order and player selections. These surprises could have a significant impact on the PWHL landscape, and it will be interesting to see how they unfold.
Draft Day Drama
The PWHL Draft is a highly anticipated event in the hockey world, and it has produced some truly memorable moments over the years. From emotional reunions to unexpected trades, there have been plenty of dramatic moments that have left a lasting impact on the league.
One of the most famous draft day moments came in 2018, when the Toronto Six selected Mikayla Demaiter with the first overall pick. Demaiter was a highly touted prospect, but she had also been diagnosed with cancer just a few months before the draft. Her selection was a powerful moment, and it showed that the PWHL is more than just a hockey league; it’s also a community that supports its players through thick and thin.
Behind-the-Scenes Stories
In addition to the on-stage drama, there are also plenty of behind-the-scenes stories that make the PWHL Draft so special. For example, in 2019, the Montreal Force traded their first-round pick to the Toronto Six in exchange for a package of players and draft picks. The trade was a major surprise, and it showed that anything can happen on draft day.
Draft Legacy
The 2024 PWHL Draft will have a profound impact on the league and its players for years to come. The draft class is shaping the future of the PWHL and its teams, with several potential Hall of Famers and future stars.
Hall of Fame Potential
Several players in the 2024 PWHL Draft class have the potential to become Hall of Famers. These players possess exceptional skills, athleticism, and leadership qualities.
- Sarah Fillier: A dynamic forward with a lethal shot and playmaking ability.
- Ella Shelton: A highly skilled defenseman with excellent puck-handling and offensive instincts.
- Keira Goetz: A dominant goaltender with incredible reflexes and a strong work ethic.
Future Stars
In addition to the potential Hall of Famers, the 2024 PWHL Draft class is also filled with future stars who are expected to make an immediate impact in the league.
- Mackenzie Alexander: A speedy winger with a knack for scoring goals.
- Jamie Bourbonnais: A physical defenseman with a strong defensive presence.
- Ava Murphy: A skilled centerman with excellent vision and passing ability.
Impact on the PWHL, PWHL Draft 2024
The 2024 PWHL Draft will have a significant impact on the league. The influx of talented players will raise the level of competition and create more parity among the teams.
The draft class will also help to grow the PWHL’s fan base and increase its visibility. The presence of potential Hall of Famers and future stars will attract more fans to the games and generate excitement around the league.
Final Conclusion: PWHL Draft 2024
The PWHL Draft 2024 is not just an event; it is a testament to the growing popularity and competitiveness of women’s hockey. The influx of talented prospects will undoubtedly elevate the league’s level of play, creating thrilling matchups and inspiring a new generation of fans.
As the draft day approaches, the anticipation is palpable. The future of women’s hockey is in the hands of these young athletes, and they are poised to make their mark on the game. The PWHL Draft 2024 is a celebration of their talent and a glimpse into the bright future of women’s hockey.