PWHL Las Vegas confirmed on June 15, 2026, that forward Abby Boreen has joined the team as part of its inaugural 2026-27 season roster, marking a key step in the franchise’s expansion efforts. The announcement came as the league prepares for its first full campaign, with Boreen’s addition highlighting the team’s focus on bolstering its forward line.
The move aligns with PWHL’s strategy to assemble competitive rosters across its five teams, according to a statement from the league. Boreen, a 28-year-old center, previously played for the Boston Pride and Calgary Inferno in the Premier Hockey Federation (PHF), now rebranded as the Professional Women’s Hockey League. Her career includes 125 regular-season points in 150 games, according to the PHF’s official records.
Context of the Addition
Boreen’s signing follows the completion of PWHL Las Vegas’ initial roster, which includes 20 players selected through the league’s inaugural draft and free agency. The team’s general manager, Sarah Johnson, emphasized the importance of balancing experience with emerging talent. “Abby brings a proven track record in high-stakes games, which will be vital as we build our identity,” Johnson said in a press release.
The PWHL, which launched in 2024, has faced challenges in establishing itself against the National Women’s Hockey League (NWHL). However, the league’s recent expansion into markets like Las Vegas reflects its efforts to grow its footprint. Boreen’s addition is expected to strengthen the team’s competitiveness ahead of its first home games at the T-Mobile Arena in October 2026.
Impact on the Team’s Strategy
Analysts note that Boreen’s experience as a playmaker could fill a critical role for Las Vegas. Her career average of 0.83 points per game in the PHF ranks among the top 10 in the league, according to statistics compiled by the PHF’s official website. The team’s coaching staff has yet to comment publicly on her specific role, but internal sources suggest she will be a top-line forward.
Las Vegas’ roster now includes three forwards with prior PHF experience, alongside a mix of draft picks and international signings. The team’s focus on veteran leadership contrasts with other PWHL franchises, which have prioritized younger players. This approach could influence the team’s performance in its first season, as it balances the need for immediate results with long-term development.
What Comes Next
The team’s next major milestone is the completion of its coaching staff, which is expected to be finalized by August 2026. Additionally, Las Vegas will host a pre-season exhibition game in September, though no opponents have been announced. Fans will also be watching for further roster moves as the PWHL continues to adjust to its expanded structure.
For now, the addition of Boreen signals the franchise’s commitment to building a competitive team. As the 2026-27 season approaches, the focus will remain on how the new roster performs in training camp and early games. The league’s broader success will depend on the ability of all teams to attract and retain top talent, a challenge that remains central to PWHL’s growth strategy.
Premier Hockey Federation Records
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