The Professional Women's Hockey League is officially making its way to Detroit, and the excitement is palpable. With the league set to expand by up to four new teams for the 2026-27 season, Detroit has secured a spot at Little Caesars Arena, marking a major milestone for hockey in the Motor City. The announcement on May 6th signals a new chapter for the PWHL, which will kick off its fourth season this November.

But before the puck drops, there's plenty of action off the ice. As the current season wraps up—with the top four teams battling for the Walter Cup in playoffs ending late May—the league is bracing for its biggest free agency period yet. Many of the original three-year contracts are expiring, and instead of an expansion draft, the new franchises will build their rosters primarily through free agency. It's a complex but thrilling process that could reshape the league landscape.

Michigan might not have Division I college hockey teams, but the Great Lakes State has produced some serious talent. Farmington's own Megan Keller, an Olympic star, is locked in with the Boston Fleet through 2027-28. However, several other Michiganders could be on the move, potentially joining a star-studded lineup in Detroit. Here are six potential free agents who could become inaugural members of the city's PWHL roster:

Let's start with the biggest name—and perhaps the most surprising. The legendary Hilary Knight, Team USA's all-time leading Olympic scorer, spent last season with the expansion Seattle Torrent. Despite a torn MCL that sidelined her for part of the season, she still managed five goals and nine assists in 22 games, proving her scoring touch remains sharp. At 37 when the 2026-27 season begins, Knight has hinted she wants two more seasons in Seattle, making a move to Detroit a long shot. But in the world of free agency, anything is possible. The Sault Ste. Marie native could bring unmatched experience and star power to a new franchise.