The 2026 PWHL Draft is set to be a treasure trove of talent, with teams eager to secure their future success. While the spotlight often shines on the top-tier players, it's the sleeper picks who can provide the biggest surprises and potential rewards. Here's an in-depth look at 15 such players who could be hidden gems for teams willing to take a chance.
The Russian Connection
Russia's dominance in women's hockey is well-documented, and the 2026 draft is no exception. The country's players bring a unique blend of skill and experience to the table. One such player is Anna Pirogova (1999, L, 5'9", Stupino, Russia), Russia's all-time defensive scoring leader in the ZhHL. Her six-time All-Star status and two Olympic medals make her a top contender. Another Russian standout is Yekaterina Batalova (1999, L, 5'9", Stupino, Russia), who, like Pirogova, could benefit from the expansion losses. These players embody the Russian hockey spirit and could be game-changers for the right team.
Goaltending Excellence
Goaltending is a critical position, and the draft offers some exceptional options. Darya Gredzen (2004, 5'9", Novosibirsk, Russia) stands out as a rare right-catching goalie with a .931 save percentage in 187 career games. At just 22 years old, she's already an Olympian and has been named Russia's Best Player and Best Goaltender. Her talent is undeniable, and teams with established goalies might consider taking a risk on her.
Size and Skill
Height and skill often go hand in hand, and Grace Elliott (2003, L, 6'2", Cloverdale, British Columbia) embodies this. Her unique 6-foot-2 frame and net-front presence, coupled with her ability to protect the puck, make her a fascinating prospect. While the gap between U SPORTS and the PWHL is significant, Elliott's potential is undeniable, and the right team could unlock her impact.
Veteran Presence
Experience is a valuable commodity, and the draft offers several veteran players who can contribute immediately. Kaitlin Pettet (1999, R, 5'3", Kentville, Nova Scotia), a former Canadian U-18 national team member and Wisconsin captain, brings a respected two-way game. Her size might be a downfall, but her experience in the tough WCHA and SDHL leagues is a significant advantage. Teams seeking a third-line player with a strong work ethic will find Pettet an attractive option.
Two-Way Excellence
Alex Bourque (2004, L, 5'4", Moncton, New Brunswick) is a solid puck mover and shot blocker, with a knack for playing in all situations. Her time at a smaller program has maximized her NCAA development, making her a potential two-way defender in the PWHL. Teams looking for a solid, all-around player will find Bourque an appealing choice.
Russian Linemate
Anna Kadirova's (2000, L, 5'5", Chelyabinsk, Russia) linemate in Russia, Katya, brings a wealth of skill and production. At 26 years old, she has Olympic experience and is a high-end Russian player. Teams willing to take a risk on a player with this caliber of talent could be rewarded, especially with the increased number of picks this year.
Quiet Impact
Some players make their impact through quiet excellence rather than flashy plays. Hannah Gilkyson (2003, L, 5'7", Calgary, Alberta) is a positive possession player, a good shot blocker, and her offensive game has grown consistently. Her advanced stats and impact on her team make her a sleeper pick worth considering.
Backup Potential
Morgan Maurer (2001, 5'5", Röthenbach im Emmental, Switzerland) might be flying under the radar, but her credentials are impressive. Back-to-back-to-back PostFinance Women's League Best Goaltender in Switzerland, preceded by a WCHA All-Rookie Team nod and a U-18 World Championship Best Goaltender award, make her a strong candidate for a backup role. Her Olympic performance further cements her potential.
Workhorse Defender
Cristina Cavaliere (2004, L, 5'5", Mississauga, Ontario) has shown year-over-year improvement and is a reliable option for teams seeking a low-risk defender. Her consistent performance and ability to play a solid game make her a valuable asset.
Experienced Bottom Pair
Erica Reider (1996, L, 5'9", Regina, Saskatchewan) brings five seasons of SDHL experience and was an All-Canadian during her university career. At 29 years old, she's an older player in the draft but offers a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record.
Playmaking Excellence
Jamie (2003, L, 5'5", Belle River, Ontario) is a slick playmaker who finds her space on the ice effortlessly. Her size might be a concern, but her ability to produce at the collegiate level and in the SDHL is remarkable.
Bullish Presence
Hannah (2003, L, 5'11", Mississauga, Ontario) is a big, bullish player who drives hard to the net. Her physical presence and ability to create space will make her a valuable bottom-six player for any PWHL team.
International Talent
The draft also features international talent, such as Neena Brick (F, MoDo, SDHL), Emilie Lavoie (D/F, Concordia, U SPORTS), Celina Haider (F, Eisbären Juniors Berlin, DFEL / Team Germany), and Courtney Kollman (F, CG Puigcerda, Spain). These players bring diverse skills and experiences to the table, adding further depth to the draft pool.
In conclusion, the 2026 PWHL Draft is a treasure trove of talent, with sleeper picks offering significant potential. Teams willing to take calculated risks could uncover hidden gems, ensuring their future success in the league.
