The Professional Women's Hockey League is officially expanding to Detroit, and the excitement is building. The PWHL announced on Wednesday, May 6, that it will add up to four new teams for the 2026-27 season, with one set to call Little Caesars Arena home. This marks a major milestone for hockey in the Motor City, as the league's fourth season is slated to begin in November.
But before the puck drops in Detroit, there's plenty of action off the ice. As the current season winds down—with the top four teams battling for the Walter Cup and playoffs wrapping up in late May—the PWHL is gearing up for its largest free agency period yet. Many of the league's original three-year contracts are set to expire, and instead of holding an expansion draft, the new franchises will build their rosters primarily through free agency. It's a complex process, but one that promises to shake up the league.
Michigan may not have any Division I college hockey teams, but the Great Lakes State has produced plenty of PWHL talent. Take Farmington's own Megan Keller, an Olympic star who remains under contract with the Boston Fleet through the 2027-28 season. But there are several other Michiganders who could be on the move, and they might just join some familiar faces in Detroit. Here are six potential inaugural members of the city's new PWHL roster:
Hilary Knight – Let's start with the biggest name, even if she's the most unlikely catch. The grand dame of Team USA—no American woman has more career Olympic goals or points—spent last season with the expansion Seattle Torrent. A torn knee ligament, which she bravely played through in Milan, cut her season in half. At 37 when the 2026-27 season begins, Knight still has her scoring touch, tallying five goals and nine assists in 22 games for the Torrent, including two goals and two assists in eight games after returning from the MCL tear. However, she's unlikely to leave Seattle, having stated she wants to play two more seasons there.
Megan Keller – Already mentioned, but worth highlighting again. The Farmington native is a defensive powerhouse and Olympic gold medalist. While she's locked in with Boston through 2027-28, her Michigan roots make her a natural fit for the Detroit expansion—if a trade or buyout ever becomes possible.
Grace Zumwinkle – A dynamic forward from Minnesota, Zumwinkle has been a standout for the Minnesota Frost. With her speed and scoring ability, she'd bring instant offense to any new team. As an impending UFA, she could be tempted by the chance to help build a franchise from the ground up.
Kendall Coyne Schofield – The veteran forward and Team USA captain is another big name who could be on the move. Known for her blazing speed and leadership, Coyne Schofield would be a marquee signing for Detroit, though she's currently with the Boston Fleet. Her experience would be invaluable for a young expansion squad.
Sarah Nurse – A Canadian star and Olympic gold medalist, Nurse has been a key player for the Toronto Sceptres. Her versatility as a forward and her clutch performances in big games make her a top target. Detroit would love to add her playmaking and scoring touch to the lineup.
Mélodie Daoust – Another Canadian standout, Daoust has been a reliable scorer for the Montreal Victoire. Her two-way game and playoff experience would be a huge boost for a new team. As a UFA, she could be looking for a fresh start, and Detroit offers an exciting opportunity.
These six players represent just a glimpse of the talent that could land in Detroit. With free agency set to reshape the league, the Motor City's new team has a chance to make a splash right from the start. Stay tuned for more updates as the PWHL expansion takes shape!