The New York Sirens are facing a significant roster overhaul following the PWHL Expansion Draft, leaving the team with key gaps to fill as they head into the free agency and entry draft periods. The expansion draft, designed to stock the rosters of the league's two new teams, Vancouver and Seattle, has hit the Sirens particularly hard, with the team losing four players who were central to their strategy.
The Sirens entered the expansion process able to protect only three players initially: forward Sarah Fillier, and defenders Ella Shelton and Micah Zandee-Hart. This left several impactful players exposed. Seattle capitalized by signing forward Alex Carpenter and goaltender Corinne Schroeder during the exclusive signing period before the draft even began. Carpenter, a clutch performer and consistent scorer, and Schroeder, considered one of the league's top goaltenders, represent significant losses.
Once the expansion draft commenced, the Sirens lost two more players: forward Jessie Eldridge was selected by Seattle, and forward Gabby Rosenthal was picked up by Vancouver. Eldridge played various roles for New York and had solidified a spot on the top line. Rosenthal, while newer to the team, was viewed as having considerable potential. After losing Carpenter and Schroeder in the signing period, the Sirens were able to protect one additional player, choosing to protect defender Maja Nylén Persson.
General Manager Pascal Daoust acknowledged the difficulty of the expansion draft process. He stated the decision to protect the defensive core reflected the view that defense was a team strength. Daoust admitted the team knew there was a high risk of losing Carpenter by leaving her unprotected. He also recognized the loss of Schroeder and the impact it would have.
The Sirens now face the challenge of rebuilding their roster through free agency and the entry draft. The team has the first overall pick in the upcoming draft, giving them a prime opportunity to add top talent. The Sirens have already re-signed forward Taylor Girard to a one-year contract. Girard, acquired mid-season last year, brings physicality and leadership to the team. She joins ten other returning players, including defenders Micah Zandee-Hart, Ella Shelton, Maja Nylén Persson, and Jaime Bourbonnais, goaltender Kayle Osborne, and forwards Paetyn Levis, Elle Hartje, Abby Roque, Emmy Fecteau and Noora Tulus.
Despite the losses, there is optimism surrounding Sarah Fillier. Fillier tied for the league lead in points as a rookie and is considered a key player for the Sirens' future. Daoust has expressed his intent to negotiate a new contract with Fillier, emphasizing her importance to the team.
The Sirens' front office is actively working to address the gaps created by the expansion draft. Daoust has indicated that all positions are open for consideration as they evaluate options in free agency, the draft, and potential trades. The team is looking to attract players who want to play alongside Fillier and take advantage of the available ice time and offensive opportunities in New York.
The Sirens finished near the bottom of the league standings in the first two seasons and missed the playoffs. The expansion draft represents a setback, but also an opportunity to reshape the team and build a more competitive roster. The upcoming weeks will be crucial as the Sirens look to retool and prepare for the 2025-2026 PWHL season.
