PWHL Increases Minimum Player Salaries and Roster Sizes
The league and its players association have agreed to a five-season deal to raise pay and expand team depth.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Hockey
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The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) is increasing its minimum player salary to $42,000 for the upcoming season as part of a new five-season agreement. The deal also expands roster sizes from 23 to 24 players while eliminating the reserve player designation.
Why it matters
This collective agreement provides long-term financial stability for athletes by implementing incremental raises over the next five years. The expansion of rosters and the removal of the previous $15,000 reserve stipend aims to improve overall league depth and player compensation structures.
The minimum salary is set to reach $52,500 by the 2030-31 season. Team rosters will now accommodate 24 players, up from the previous limit of 23.
The players
Professional Women’s Hockey League
The PWHL is a professional ice hockey league that operates throughout North America.
The details
Under the new five-season pact, minimum salaries will rise steadily to $45,000 in 2027-28 and $50,000 in 2029-30. The league is also phasing out the reserve player role, which previously offered a $15,000 stipend, to ensure all rostered athletes receive the increased league minimum.
Timeline
November 18, 2026: Training camps open.
December 5, 2026: The fourth season begins.
2027-28 season: Minimum salary becomes $45,000.
2029-30 season: Minimum salary becomes $50,000.
2030-31 season: Minimum salary becomes $52,500.
Season Trajectory
This agreement provides a structural roadmap for the league's financial development and talent retention over the next half-decade. By formalizing these increases, the PWHL aligns its labor model with established professional sports benchmarks to foster competitive balance.
With expanded rosters to 24 players, teams will have increased depth to handle the physical demands of the season. Fans and fantasy players should note that every player on the active roster will now be guaranteed the new minimum salary floor.
The takeaway
This agreement signals a commitment to sustainable professional growth and improved working conditions for athletes in the league. Supporters and players can expect these incremental pay increases to continue through the 2030-31 season.
Further reading
For more information on the league and its growth, visit our Hockey section.
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Should professional sports leagues prioritize increasing minimum salaries and roster sizes for players?
