While general manager Manon Rhéaume has fueled PWHL Detroit with both veterans of the game and high end potential on the offensive side of the puck, the defensive outlook may be a bit less rosy. The defenders signed in expansion combined for the fewest total points last year of any team in the PWHL. However, on the defensive side of the puck, this is a steady and reliable squad and with most having only a year or two of professional hockey under their belts, leaving room to grow with new opportunity.
However, these numbers do not take into account the 2026 draft, where seven of the top 12 picks were impactful defenders. Without a first round asset, Rhéaume used a second round pick to bring in Casey Borgiel to bolster the ranks. The Port Huron, Michigan native was a cornerstone for the Colgate blue line last season, leading the Raider defenders with 21 points in 36 games. This came all while Borgiel played a responsible two-way game with the flashes of the toughness needed to translate to the professional game.
Mellissa Channell-Watkins and Sydney Bard, both previously of the Vancouver Goldeneyes, rank in the top ten for total blocks and hits per game. These insulating defenders will help to anchor pairings and could unlock offensive potential for their partners. Channell-Watkins is the veteran of the young d-corps, Detroit’s only rostered defender over the age of 30. She has proven to be a minute-muncher over her PWHL career, entrusted to play 17+ minutes a night on the 2024-25 Walter Cup winning Minnesota Frost as well as in Vancouver this past season.
Perhaps the most important asset to this defensive group is moving the puck quickly to their talented forwards. For a strong first pass, look no further than Cayla Barnes. In her draft year, she was ranked 18th out of 25 in the Ice Garden’s Top 25 under 25 ranking with writer J Gray saying “her impact went beyond scoring; Barnes’ dynamic skating and passing skills contributed to her strong defensive presence.” Entering her third season, Barnes looks to rebound from a sophomore slump (down to 8 points from her rookie-year 13 points). Just as capable running a power play or joining the rush, Barnes figures to be the go-to on the blue line. She brings experience beyond her years, as a two-time Team USA Olympian and NCAA champion with Ohio State. In Detroit, Barnes will get a fresh start, her third team in as many years, signed to a three-year deal with ample time to settle in and reach her full potential.
Defense is not always about flashiness; some of the best defenders, you may not even notice. For many, gaudy point production is not the aim. Instead, strong positional awareness and engagement make certain defenders indispensable. Rhéaume opted to fill out the roster with this style of player with hope their offensive game can evolve. With an average age of 26, the group assembled displays maturity beyond their years. The talent is abundant; the only question is who will seize the opportunity.
