Four teams are vying for the prestigious Walter Cup in the PWHL playoffs. Half of the league’s teams qualified for the postseason in the third season, with the final spots determined in exciting matches last Saturday. The Montreal Victoire secured the top spot by winning a crucial game against the Boston Fleet. Meanwhile, the Ottawa Charge clinched the last playoff position by winning their decisive match against the Toronto Sceptres.
Montreal, as the top seed, opted to face the Minnesota Frost in the first round. The series will kick off on Saturday at 2 p.m. ET, followed by Game 2 on Tuesday, May 5 at 7 p.m. ET. In the other semifinal, the Boston Fleet will take on the Ottawa Charge, with the first game scheduled for Thursday at 7 p.m. in Lowell, Mass., and Game 2 on Saturday at 7 p.m.
The Montreal Victoire has been on fire in the latter part of the season, setting a league record with points in 16 consecutive games. Despite facing challenges due to key player absences, including Marie-Philip Poulin, Erin Ambrose, and Maureen Murphy, the Victoire’s depth has shone through this season. Ann-Renée Desbiens has been a standout in goal for Montreal, providing solid defense throughout the season. The team’s success has also been bolstered by players like Laura Stacey, Lina Ljungblom, and Hayley Scamurra.
On the other hand, the Minnesota Frost, the defending champions, are a formidable opponent with experienced players like Kendall Coyne Schofield, Kelly Pannek, and Taylor Heise. The Frost have a strong goaltending duo in Maddie Rooney and Nicole Hensley and a deep roster that poses a significant challenge for their opponents.
In the second semifinal, the Boston Fleet, led by standout players such as Aerin Frankel, Megan Keller, and Jessie Eldridge, will face the Ottawa Charge. Ottawa, spearheaded by Brianne Jenner, Rebecca Leslie, and rookie Sarah Wozniewicz, has shown resilience and determination throughout the season. The goaltending battle between Frankel and Gwyneth Philips is expected to be a key factor in determining the outcome of the series.
Both playoff matchups promise to deliver thrilling action and intense competition as the teams vie for the honor of lifting the Walter Cup.
