Seattle’s PWHL expansion team is loading up on star power, and its latest move comes at the Sirens’ expense.
Seattle announced Friday it inked forward Alex Carpenter to a one-year deal, the franchise’s fourth signing during its exclusive window.
“I am very excited for the opportunity to be a part of PWHL Seattle in its inaugural season,” Carpenter said in a statement released by the team.
“Joining Seattle, a city known for its passionate sports fans, is something I’m truly looking forward to. I’m eager to build something special and bring a championship to Seattle.”
The 31-year-old posted 43 points in 50 games with the Sirens after being one of their marquee signings in the PWHL’s inaugural season.
She ranks third all-time in league scoring, first in power-play points with 18 and was a finalist for both the Forward of the Year and Billie Jean King MVP awards last season.
“Alex is a true competitor who brings intensity every time she steps on the ice,” Seattle GM Meghan Turner said in a release.
“She’s an elite two-way player who has proven to be one of the best in the world for years, and she has the ability to take over a game at both ends of the ice. She’s hungry to win and brings the kind of drive that sets the tone for a team. We’re excited to have her join us as we build the foundation of our team.”
She was a surprising choice to be left unprotected by the Sirens, who were allowed to hang onto three players ahead of the pre-expansion draft period.
Seattle wasn’t done raiding the Sirens roster, announcing a two-year deal for goalie Corinne Schroeder, the PWHL’s all-time leader in shutouts, as well.
“Signing Corinne is a huge step for our team,” Turner said. “With four shutouts this season, more than anyone in the league, she’s shown she can take over a game and deliver when it matters most. She brings poise, confidence, and the kind of elite goaltending every team needs to win, and we can’t wait to see her between the pipes for us.”
With the netminder also coming aboard, Seattle has now filled its allotment of pre-expansion draft signings.
They join forwards Hilary Knight and Danielle Sedachny, along with defender Cayla Barnes, among Seattle’s first signings ahead of its first season.
The expansion draft comes Monday, in which Seattle and Vancouver will select players to fill out 12-player rosters.
