Detroit is all in on women’s hockey, as the PWHL announced plans to stage next month’s entry draft and awards ceremony in the incoming expansion city.
The news accompanies the third-year league’s decision to launch its ninth team in the Motor City. PWHL Detroit will hit the ice later this year.
“We’re excited that we’ll give this community an early chance to get involved and to watch your team be built,” PWHL EVP of business operations Amy Scheer said.
2025/26 addition Vancouver secured this year’s top PWHL draft pick, with Wisconsin and Team USA standout Caroline Harvey projected to go No. 1.
Seattle, New York, and Toronto also have lottery picks after missing the PWHL playoffs. However, introducing more teams could disrupt the draft order via the league’s Gold Plan system.
“I’m so excited Hockeytown is now home to the newest team in the Professional Women’s Hockey League, and to welcome the 2026 PWHL Draft and Awards Ceremony to Michigan next month,” said Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
“We’re ready to build on Michigan’s hockey momentum.”
The 2026 PWHL Draft kicks off June 17th at Detroit’s historic Fox Theater.
