On May 8, 2025, the Ottawa Charge will face the Montreal Victoire in Game 1 of their best-of-five semifinal series at Place Bell in Laval, Quebec. This marks the first-ever all-Canadian playoff matchup in the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), with Montreal entering as the top seed and Ottawa looking to continue its late-season surge.
Team Overview
| Team | Regular Season Record | Goals Scored | Goals Conceded | Last 5 Games |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montreal Victoire | 12-7-3-8 (53 pts) | 77 | 67 | W-W-L-W-W |
| Ottawa Charge | 12-2-4-12 (44 pts) | 72 | 74 | W-W-W-L-W |
Montreal finished the regular season first in the PWHL standings, earning the right to select its semifinal opponent. The Victoire opted for Ottawa, citing travel convenience and favorable matchups. However, Ottawa has won the last two head-to-head meetings, proving they can challenge the league’s top team.
Key Players to Watch
- Montreal Victoire
- Marie-Philip Poulin – The league’s leading goal scorer (19 goals) and Montreal’s captain, known for her clutch performances.
- Ann-Renée Desbiens – Arguably the best goaltender in the PWHL, boasting a strong save percentage.
- Laura Stacey & Jenn Gardiner – Part of Montreal’s dominant top line, which also featured for Team Canada at the Women’s World Championship.
- Ottawa Charge
- Tereza Vanišová – Ottawa’s top scorer (22 points), a dynamic offensive presence.
- Gwyneth Philips – Ottawa’s emerging star in net, who has been sensational in high-pressure games.
- Emily Clark & Shiann Darkangelo – Key contributors in Ottawa’s late-season push to secure a playoff spot.
Tactical Breakdown
- Montreal’s Approach: Expect the Victoire to control possession, utilizing their high-powered offense and structured defensive play. Poulin’s ability to dictate the pace will be crucial.
- Ottawa’s Strategy: The Charge will likely lean on Philips in goal, aiming to frustrate Montreal’s attack while capitalizing on counterattacks. Their physical play could be a factor in slowing down Montreal’s top line.
Match Details
- Date: May 8, 2025
- Location: Place Bell, Laval, QC
- Puck Drop: 7:00 PM EST
- Broadcast: PWHL+, TSN, RDS
