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Ottawa Charge Name Three Players to Protection List for PWHL Expansion Process
On Wednesday, June 3, 2026, the eight existing Professional Women's Hockey League teams finalized their three-player protection lists, initiating the expansion process for four new franchises in Detroit, Hamilton, Las Vegas, and San Jose.
Phase 2 begins on Friday at 9 a.m., with each expansion team adding five players to its roster through binding "Expansion Foundational Offer" contracts allowing players to sign for up to four years.
Seattle Torrent captain Hilary Knight and Boston Fleet forward Alina Muller were left off their respective teams' protection lists, leaving several high-profile stars available for selection by the new franchises.
An "Expansion Foundational Offer" guarantees players at least $100,000 in their first year, providing a raise for many including Muller, whose 2025-26 base salary was $95,000.
Rostering continues through June 15, with Phase 3 from June 10-12 allowing teams to protect three additional players; by Phase 4's end, each expansion team will have 10 players under contract for 2026-27.