Ottawa Charge Make Their Picks as PWHL Expansion Heats Up
Ottawa's beloved PWHL franchise, the Charge, has secured three of its core players as the league kicks off its expansion protection process — and fans will be happy to see some familiar faces sticking around.
Gwyneth Philips, Ronja Savolainen, and Rebecca Leslie have all been protected by the Charge, meaning they won't be available for selection by incoming expansion teams. The move signals Ottawa's commitment to building a competitive core as the PWHL continues its rapid growth.
Who Are the Protected Players?
Rebecca Leslie is perhaps the most emotionally resonant pick for Ottawa fans. The hometown hero has deep roots in the region and has become one of the most recognizable faces of the franchise since the PWHL launched. Keeping her in Ottawa isn't just a hockey decision — it's a statement about the kind of identity the Charge want to build.
Goaltender Gwyneth Philips has been a steadying presence between the pipes, and her protection signals that the Charge see her as a long-term cornerstone of the team. Quality goaltending is a premium commodity in the PWHL, and Ottawa isn't letting theirs walk.
Ronja Savolainen rounds out the trio, adding international flavour and skating talent to a squad that's looking to push further into playoff contention in the seasons ahead.
What Is the PWHL Expansion Process?
The PWHL's expansion protection process allows existing franchises to shield a set number of players from being claimed by new teams entering the league. It's a critical moment for roster-building — both for established clubs protecting what they've built, and for expansion franchises hunting for talent to fill out their lineups.
For Ottawa, the decisions made now will shape the competitive landscape for years to come. Every player protected is a signal of organizational priorities; every player left unprotected is a calculated risk.
What It Means for Ottawa Fans
For a city that embraced the Charge with remarkable enthusiasm from day one, this news offers some welcome continuity. Ottawa's PWHL fanbase has shown up in force, and seeing beloved players locked in for another year gives supporters something concrete to rally around as the new season approaches.
The Charge have been building something real in the nation's capital, and protecting players like Leslie — who carries the weight of local pride — shows the organization understands what this team means to the community.
Expect more roster moves in the coming weeks as the full scope of the expansion process unfolds. But for now, Ottawa fans can breathe easy knowing three of their own are staying home.
Source: CBC Ottawa
