Ottawa Charge Leads Minnesota Frost 1-0 in PWHL Finals

The PWHL Finals feature a closely contested series between the Ottawa Charge and the Minnesota Frost, with Ottawa taking a 1-0 lead after a 2-1 overtime victory in Game 1. Ottawa's Rebecca Leslie scored the first finals goal in the city, and goaltender Gwyneth Philips made a critical 25 saves to secure the win, highlighting the Charge's strong defensive effort against Minnesota's lethal transition game. Minnesota, led by playoff MVP Taylor Heise, has demonstrated clutch performances, including multiple overtime winners, but Ottawa's disciplined defense has effectively limited Minnesota's scoring chances in high-danger areas. Ottawa's power play has struggled to convert opportunities, whereas Minnesota's penalty kill has been effective at anticipating passes. The series is notable as Ottawa becomes the first Canadian franchise to reach the PWHL Final, with both teams evenly matched in regular-season points and semifinal upsets. The final could extend to five games, with upcoming matches hosted at OTTAWA's TD Place and Minnesota's home venue.