2024/25 PWHL Season Preview and Betting Odds

With expanded schedules, new arenas, and more fan interest than ever, this promises to be an exciting year for women’s hockey. Let’s break down each team and what you can expect from them this season.

PWHL Betting Odds

Boston Fleet

After falling just short in the PWHL Finals last season, the Boston Fleet are looking to change the narrative this year. With a new name that reflects the city’s maritime heritage, the Fleet boast a talented roster headlined by captain Hilary Knight, along with stars like Alina Müller and Megan Keller. Goaltender Aerin Frankel was a standout performer in the playoffs, and her continued success will be crucial to Boston’s title hopes.

However, scoring remains a major concern for this team. They finished last season with only 50 goals—the lowest among all six teams—and none of their skaters cracked the league’s top 12 in points. Boston will need to generate more offensive firepower if they hope to contend for the Walter Cup. Bettors should keep an eye on this team early in the season to see if their offensive game evolves, as they could be a strong underdog pick if they figure things out in the attacking zone.

Minnesota Frost

The defending Walter Cup champions, now officially named the Minnesota Frost, are poised to make another deep run. Despite some offseason changes—including the departure of GM Natalie Darwitz—the Frost still have the firepower to dominate. Captain Kendall Coyne Schofield, along with Taylor Heise and Grace Zumwinkle, lead a talented forward group. They’ve also added depth to their blue line with players like Claire Thompson, and the goaltending duo of Nicole Hensley and Maddie Rooney looks ready for another big season.

Minnesota will face increased pressure with every opponent aiming to dethrone them, but their depth and star power make them a consistent pick in most matchups. Bettors should look for value in prop bets related to Minnesota’s strong defence and goaltending, as well as high-scoring games with Heise leading the offense.

Montreal Victoire

The Montreal Victoire, named to celebrate the city’s sporting heritage, enter this season with a chip on their shoulder after a tough playoff exit last year. Led by Marie-Philip Poulin—arguably the best player in women’s hockey—and supported by Laura Stacey and Erin Ambrose, Montreal has all the tools to be a contender. The addition of rookie defender Cayla Barnes could bolster their blue line, while Ann-Renée Desbiens returns as the starting goaltender, providing stability between the pipes.

Montreal’s homebase at Laval’s Bell Place should provide an energized atmosphere for a team looking to make a deep playoff run. Bettors may want to lean on the Victoire when playing at home, as Poulin and company tend to elevate their game with the crowd behind them. Look for betting opportunities on Montreal’s power play, which will feature some of the league’s best offensive talents.

New York Sirens

The New York Sirens endured a tough inaugural season, finishing last in the standings, but this year could be a turning point. Drafting Sarah Fillier first overall was a big step in the right direction, though she remains unsigned as the season approaches. The Sirens have also brought in Greg Fargo as the new head coach, and he will work with a roster that includes top players like Alex Carpenter, Ella Shelton, and goaltender Corinne Schroeder, who led the league in save percentage last season.

The Sirens are moving to Newark’s Prudential Center, hoping for a fresh start in a new home. With a young and hungry core, New York could be a value pick early in the season, especially if Fillier signs and contributes immediately. Watch for them to be a potential sleeper against top teams, as they have the pieces to upset if they find consistency.

Ottawa Charge

The Ottawa Charge narrowly missed the playoffs last year, but they’re back with a renewed focus and an improved roster. Goaltending was an issue last season, with the lowest save percentage in the league, but the addition of Logan Angers, who shone in her final NCAA season, should help stabilize things. Ottawa also brought in key offensive players like Rebecca Leslie and top draft picks Danielle Serdachny and Ronja Savolainen to bolster their attack.

Playing at TD Place, the Charge will look to secure their first playoff berth. Bettors should pay attention to Ottawa’s early season form, particularly on defense. If Angers lives up to her potential, the Charge could be a solid bet to cover the spread in closely contested games.

Toronto Sceptres

The Toronto Sceptres were dominant in the regular season last year, posting a league-best 47 points. However, they stumbled in the playoffs after losing MVP Natalie Spooner to injury. Now, with Spooner back and healthy, the Sceptres are ready to chase a title. They’ve also got a deep roster featuring Sarah Nurse, Emma Maltais, and star goaltender Kristen Campbell, who was named the league’s best goalie last season.

Toronto will play their home games at the Coca-Cola Coliseum, which saw sold-out crowds during last year’s playoffs. Bettors should feel confident backing the Sceptres, particularly in high-scoring games where Spooner and Nurse can shine. With a mix of experience and offensive firepower, Toronto will be a team to watch in any matchup.

PWHL Betting Odds and Futures

How do the PWHL playoffs work?

According to the latest futures odds, the Toronto Sceptres are the favourites to lift the Walter Cup this year at +220, followed closely by the defending champions Minnesota Frost at +340. The Boston Fleet (+450) and Montreal Victoire (+500) are also expected to be strong contenders, while the New York Sirens (+600) and Ottawa Charge (+850) present value for those looking for a longshot.

If you’re looking at playoff futures, the Toronto Sceptres are almost a lock to make the postseason with odds at -2000 for “Yes” and +750 for “No.” Montreal Victoire also seem a solid playoff contender, sitting at -225 to make the postseason. The Ottawa Charge, on the other hand, are a bit of a wildcard, with both “Yes” and “No” set at -110, indicating that oddsmakers see them as being right on the bubble.