PWHL Vancouver Signs Top Defenders, Eyes Sarah Nurse

The PWHL's new Vancouver franchise has strengthened its roster by signing top defensemen Claire Thompson and Sophie Jaques from the two-time champion Minnesota Frost at the start of the expansion signing period. Thompson, a defender of the year finalist with 18 points as a rookie, reunites with Vancouver GM Cara Gardner Morey, her former Princeton coach. Jaques, also a finalist, signed a three-year deal after tying the league lead among defensemen with 22 points and helping Minnesota win consecutive Walter Cups. Both players bring significant playoff and international experience, with Thompson having secured Olympic gold for Canada in 2022. Seattle, the other expansion team, has not announced major signings as both teams prepare for the expansion and league drafts later in June. Vancouver is also expected to sign Canadian forward Sarah Nurse to further strengthen its inaugural roster.