“This Week in the PWHL: Playoff Preparations Underway as Teams Vie for Top Spot”
After a rocky start to the season, PWHL Toronto found themselves at the bottom of the league standings just over two weeks into the competition. With four losses in their first five games, including a challenging inaugural home game, the team struggled to find their rhythm despite their initial familiarity. However, fast forward three months, and Toronto accomplished a remarkable feat by becoming the first team in the PWHL to secure a playoff berth. This turnaround was fueled by an impressive 11-game winning streak, characterized by strong defensive play and a notable performance shift from goaltender Kristen Campbell, who rose to the occasion after limited playing time earlier in the season.
Reflecting on their journey, Campbell acknowledged the adversity they faced at the start, emphasizing how it ultimately contributed to their current success. Now sitting comfortably in first place with three games remaining before playoffs, Toronto’s position is not yet solidified, with Montreal and Minnesota trailing closely, each only three points behind. As Toronto experienced firsthand, the dynamics at the top of the standings can swiftly change with a single regulation win.
The stakes are high for the team that claims the top spot, as they will earn the privilege of selecting their first-round playoff opponent. Despite Toronto’s recent victory over Montreal, head coach Troy Ryan remains cautious about the prospect of facing off against the formidable Montreal squad, led by star players like Marie-Philip Poulin and Ann-Renée Desbiens. The decision will ultimately be made collectively by the team after careful deliberation.
Meanwhile, despite Montreal’s loss in overtime, there were several positives to take away from the game. The team’s power play, in particular, showcased significant improvement, with defenseman Erin Ambrose leading the charge with her exceptional puck movement and contributions on the man advantage. Despite missing key players due to injury, Montreal’s performance signals that they are peaking at the right moment, gearing up for the playoffs.
In Minnesota, captain Kendall Coyne Schofield’s remarkable comeback after giving birth just six months prior has been a driving force behind the team’s consistent performance throughout the season. Supported by a solid goaltending tandem and a formidable defensive lineup, Minnesota finds themselves tied with Montreal for second place in the standings. With a chance to clinch a playoff spot in their upcoming game, Minnesota’s cohesion and determination bode well for their postseason aspirations.
As the regular season nears its conclusion, teams across the PWHL are gearing up for the playoffs, with each game carrying significant implications for postseason positioning. With intense competition and high stakes, the stage is set for an exhilarating finish to the season as teams vie for supremacy in the quest for championship glory.
