Date: May 7, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Venue: Coca-Cola Coliseum, Toronto, ON
Broadcast: Prime Video, FanDuel Sports Network North
Matchup Overview
The Minnesota Frost (No. 4 seed) and Toronto Sceptres (No. 2 seed) meet in the first round of the PWHL playoffs, renewing their rivalry from last season. Toronto finished the regular season second overall, while Minnesota secured the final playoff spot with back-to-back wins to close the season.
This series is a rematch of last year’s Walter Cup playoffs, where Minnesota stunned Toronto in five games despite the Sceptres finishing first in the standings. Toronto coach Troy Ryan has emphasized avoiding a repeat of last season’s collapse.
Key Storylines
1. Can Toronto Overcome Last Year’s Playoff Struggles?
Toronto dominated the 2024 regular season, only to fall apart against Minnesota in the playoffs. This year, they’ve focused on depth scoring and defensive stability to ensure they don’t suffer the same fate.
2. Minnesota’s Physical Style vs. Toronto’s Speed
Minnesota relies on grit and physicality, with players like Brooke McQuigge, Britta Curl-Salemme, and Grace Zumwinkle bringing a hard-hitting approach. Toronto, on the other hand, thrives on speed and puck movement, led by Daryl Watts, Hannah Miller, and Jesse Compher.
3. Goaltending Battle – Kristen Campbell vs. Minnesota’s Rotation
Toronto’s Kristen Campbell has been solid all season, providing consistency in net. Minnesota, however, has rotated between Nicole Hensley and Maddie Rooney, with coach Ken Klee known for swapping goalies mid-series.
4. X-Factors – Defense & Special Teams
Minnesota’s Sophie Jaques and Claire Thompson are offensive threats from the blue line, while Toronto’s Renata Fast and Savannah Harmon have been key shutdown defenders. Special teams could be crucial, as Toronto struggled against Minnesota’s penalty kill in the regular season.
Projected Starting Lineups
Minnesota Frost
- LW: Kendall Coyne Schofield
- C: Taylor Heise
- RW: Michela Cava
- D: Sophie Jaques
- D: Claire Thompson
- G: Nicole Hensley / Maddie Rooney
Toronto Sceptres
- LW: Daryl Watts
- C: Jesse Compher
- RW: Hannah Miller
- D: Renata Fast
- D: Savannah Harmon
- G: Kristen Campbell
