The Minnesota Frost have experienced a significant early departure, losing two key defenders – Claire Thompson and Sophie Jaques – to the newly established Vancouver franchise in the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL). This move underscores the competitive landscape of the league’s second season and highlights the Vancouver Wave’s aggressive strategy during the signing period. Thompson, a standout performer who was a finalist for the PWHL Defender of the Year award just concluded, and Jaques, a highly promising offensive-minded defenseman, have both committed to contracts for the 2025-26 season. This swift acquisition demonstrates the Wave’s determination to build a strong roster from the outset, particularly at a position where the Frost previously held a clear advantage – the defensive defenseman role. The Wave utilized an exclusive signing period, allowing them to secure three players before the PWHL’s expansion draft, showcasing their commitment to immediate contention. Thompson’s contract is for one year, reflecting the initial phase of her commitment to the franchise, while Jaques has signed a three-year deal, signaling a longer-term investment by the Vancouver Wave. Prior to these signings, Thompson’s medical school studies prevented her from participating in the league’s inaugural season. The Frost, along with the other original six PWHL teams, were granted the right to protect three players during the signing period and the subsequent expansion draft. Following these acquisitions, the Frost now safeguard Britta Curl-Salemme, Kendall Coyne Schofield, Lee Stecklein, and Taylor Heise, solidifying a core group of experienced and talented players. Coach Ken Klee acknowledged the impact of these departures, stating, "It’s going to impact everyone. We play by the rules that are handed to us, whether on or off the ice."

The Frost’s strategic response will be crucial as they navigate this evolving landscape and aim to maintain their competitive edge within the PWHL. The Vancouver Wave’s proactive approach, combined with the Frost’s adherence to league regulations, sets the stage for an intriguing season and raises questions about the long-term implications for all participating teams. The expansion draft and the subsequent signings represent a pivotal moment in the PWHL’s development, emphasizing the importance of player acquisition and strategic team building. The Frost’s ability to adapt and respond effectively will be a key factor in their success, particularly given the heightened competition within the league. Moving forward, the Frost will need to carefully assess their roster and identify areas where they can strengthen their team to remain competitive against the newly formed Vancouver Wave and the other established PWHL franchises. The league’s second season promises to be filled with exciting matchups and strategic maneuvering as teams vie for dominance. This early player movement underscores the aggressive nature of the PWHL and the high stakes involved in building a successful franchise. The Frost’s decision to reclaim Britta Curl-Salemme highlights their commitment to retaining talent and their willingness to adjust their strategy based on league regulations. The Vancouver Wave’s immediate success in securing Thompson and Jaques demonstrates the franchise’s ambition and its ability to compete for top talent in the PWHL. The entire league is watching to see how these initial signings will shape the competitive balance and influence the future of professional women’s hockey.

The Frost’s ability to adapt and respond effectively will be a key factor in their success, particularly given the heightened competition within the league. The Vancouver Wave’s proactive approach, combined with the Frost’s adherence to league regulations, sets the stage for an intriguing season and raises questions about the long-term implications for all participating teams. The expansion draft and the subsequent signings represent a pivotal moment in the PWHL’s development, emphasizing the importance of player acquisition and strategic team building. The Frost’s ability to adapt and respond effectively will be a key factor in their success, particularly given the heightened competition within the league. Moving forward, the Frost will need to carefully assess their roster and identify areas where they can strengthen their team to remain competitive against the newly formed Vancouver Wave and the other established PWHL franchises. The league’s second season promises to be filled with exciting matchups and strategic maneuvering as teams vie for dominance. This early player movement underscores the aggressive nature of the PWHL and the high stakes involved in building a successful franchise. The Frost’s decision to reclaim Britta Curl-Salemme highlights their commitment to retaining talent and their willingness to adjust their strategy based on league regulations. The Vancouver Wave’s immediate success in securing Thompson and Jaques demonstrates the franchise’s ambition and its ability to compete for top talent in the PWHL. The entire league is watching to see how these initial signings will shape the competitive balance and influence the future of professional women’s hockey.