The Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) is rapidly establishing itself as a premier destination for top-tier talent, and the upcoming drafts are eagerly anticipated to continue this trend. Following a highly successful 2026 draft that introduced rising stars like Caroline Harvey, Abbey Murphy, Laila Edwards, and Tessa Janecke, the league is already looking ahead to the future. This overview provides an initial glimpse into the exceptional athletes expected to make waves in the 2028 and 2029 PWHL drafts, many of whom possess international experience and remarkable collegiate achievements.
The 2028 PWHL Draft is expected to feature a strong class of talent, particularly on the defensive end. Among the standout prospects is Mira Jungaker, a defender from Ohio State, who is being hailed as potentially the best defender outside the PWHL. Her comprehensive skill set, combining mobility, physicality, defensive prowess, and offensive capabilities, along with her international experience representing Sweden at Worlds and the Olympics, positions her as a transformative player. Similarly, Chloe Primerano, a defender from Minnesota and a World Championship medalist with Canada, carries the label of a phenom. Despite a challenging NCAA season and missing Canada's Olympic roster, her dazzling ability to transport the puck and evade opponents, coupled with her tenacious edge, suggests she will soon be a fixture on the national team and a top PWHL pick. In the forward category, Caitlin Kraemer of Minnesota-Duluth is noted for her power forward style, having already played for Canada in the Rivalry Series. While her offensive explosion in the NCAA has yet to materialize fully, her potential to provide dynamic offensive talent is high, given proper utilization. Other notable forwards for 2028 include Maggie Scannell from Wisconsin, recognized for her size, puck protection, and finishing skills, and Mackenzie Alexander from Princeton, a consistent offensive producer known for her playmaking vision and versatile scoring abilities. Additional players to watch for in 2028 include Claire Murdoch, Emma Venusio, Makayla Watson, Felicia Frank, and Julia Schalin.
Looking even further ahead, the 2029 PWHL Draft promises an equally stacked class. Hilda Svensson, a forward from Ohio State, is a prime example, having already earned titles such as WCHA Rookie of the Year and co-national NCAA Rookie of the Year. Her extensive experience, including multiple World Championships and the 2026 Olympics with Sweden, demonstrates her ability to dominate against older competition, making her a potential headliner for the 2029 class. Sara Manness, a forward from Clarkson, achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the first rookie to be named ECAC Player of the Year, in addition to securing Rookie of the Year and Forward of the Year honors. Her elite playmaking vision, two-way acumen, and finishing ability suggest a rapid ascent to Team Canada's ranks and a future as a top-tier center. Stryker Zablocki, a forward from Northeastern, has shown incredible trajectory, being named Hockey East Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year in her first NCAA season. Her blazing speed, creative play, and competitive drive make her a strong candidate for Canada's national team elite. Adela Sapovalivova, a forward from Wisconsin, despite being undersized, is a persistent and creative player known for her speed, evasiveness, and tenacity. A key contributor for Team Czechia, she has proven her ability to compete with the world's best. Lastly, Sanni Vanhanen, a forward from Ohio State, has had a spectacular start to her NCAA career, blossoming offensively after a depth role with Team Finland. With five World Championship appearances and two Olympic medals by age 20, she is poised to make a significant impact in the PWHL. Other talents for 2029 include Jenna Raunio, Bella Fanale, Danica Maynard, Rhyah Stewart, Ava Thomas, Tereza Plosova, Maxine Cimeroni, Molly Boyle, Alessia Baeschler, and Kate Manness.
The PWHL's future appears bright, with a continuous influx of exceptional talent poised to join its ranks. The upcoming draft classes of 2028 and 2029 are brimming with athletes who possess the skill, experience, and potential to shape the league for years to come. These players, from dominant defenders to dynamic forwards, are set to captivate fans and elevate the level of play in professional women's hockey.
