Just one day before the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) Draft at Detroit’s Fox Theatre, PWHL Detroit made one of the biggest moves in league history.
The expansion franchise acquired legendary forward Hilary Knight from PWHL Las Vegas in exchange for Detroit’s first-round draft pick, third overall in Wednesday’s draft.
Knight, 36, is widely considered one of the greatest players in women’s hockey history. A five-time Olympian, two-time Olympic gold medalist, and 10-time World Champion with Team USA, Knight brings instant star power and leadership to Detroit as the franchise prepares for its inaugural season.
“Hilary Knight is one of the best and most accomplished players in women’s hockey history,” said Detroit General Manager Manon Rhéaume. Manon Rhéaume is most famous for being the first woman ever to play in an NHL game. In 1992, she was goalie for the Tampa Bay Lightning.
The trade means Detroit will forfeit the No. 3 overall selection in what many observers consider one of the strongest draft classes in recent PWHL history. Las Vegas now owns two top-five picks and will select third and fifth overall.
The 2026 PWHL Draft will take place Wednesday, June 17, at the Fox Theatre in downtown Detroit beginning at 5 p.m. ET.
A total of 72 players will be selected over 6 rounds.
While some fans have questioned giving up a high draft pick for a veteran player, Detroit’s front office clearly believes Knight’s elite talent, experience, and ability to draw fans make her the ideal face of the franchise as professional women’s hockey officially arrives in Hockeytown.
What: Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) Draft
When: Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Where: Fox Theatre (2211 Woodward ave, Detroit, MI)
Time: 5:00 p.m.
More info
https://www.thepwhl.com/en/news/2026/june/16/pwhl-detroit-and-pwhl-las-vegas-complete-trade
PWHL Detroit