Five former University of Minnesota women's hockey players were chosen in the 2026 PWHL Draft, showcasing their achievements and talent. Abbey Murphy stood out, selected second overall by the Seattle Torrent after a standout season, while fellow Gopher Nelli Laitinen made history as the first draft pick for PWHL Hamilton at sixth overall. Sydney Morrow, Jamie Nelson, and Josefin Bouveng were also selected, adding to the Gophers' strong presence in the league. These athletes not only excelled in college but also represented their countries in the Olympics.

By the Numbers
  • Abbey Murphy led the nation with 66 points, including 40 goals, becoming Minnesota's all-time leader with 143 goals.
  • Nelli Laitinen recorded her first career hat trick and 30 points in her senior season, tying for fourth nationally among defenders.
  • Sydney Morrow achieved 38 points, ranking third among defenders, and reached her 100th career point in January.
  • Jamie Nelson finished with 42 points, ranking sixth nationally for assists, with 31 throughout the season.
  • Josefin Bouveng scored 43 points and had a 25-game point streak, while ranking fifth nationally for assists per game.
Yes, But

Despite the impressive achievements of these players, there are challenges ahead in transitioning to professional play, including adapting to the heightened competition and potential injuries. Additionally, the significant gap between college and professional league expectations may impact their early careers.

State of Play
  • The PWHL establishes a new competitive platform for women鈥檚 hockey, highlighting the talent evolving from college programs.
  • Many of the selected Gophers are returning from Olympic appearances, enhancing their profiles as they enter the draft.
  • The presence of multiple Gophers on the same teams may foster a continuity that benefits their integration into professional play.
What's Next

As these players begin their professional careers, it will be critical to monitor their adaptation to the PWHL. Individual performances in the league will shape team strategies and may influence future drafts. Opportunities for further national and international competitions are also on the horizon, given their prior Olympic involvement.

Bottom Line

The selection of five Gophers in the PWHL Draft reinforces the program's strength, but the transition to professional play will test their skills and resilience. Continued development and performance in the PWHL could lead to increased opportunities within the sport, both domestically and internationally.