Ashton Bell knew Vancouver had interest, after speaking with GM Cara Gardner Morey during an exclusive signing window prior to the draft. But exactly how things would play out was remained a mystery.

Some of the PWHL's stars are on the move as the league prepares to welcome two new expansion teams in 2025-26.

Former UMD Bulldog Ashton Bell was the first overall pick going to new franchise in Vancouver. Formerly with the Ottawa Charge, she recorded four goals and four assists last season. Vancouver also took four skaters from the Minnesota Frost: defenders Sophie Jaques and Claire Thompson, and forwards Brooke McQuigge and Denisa Křížová.