PWHL Seattle has made their first player signing, and it’s a big one.
The team announced on Wednesday that it has agreed to terms with Hilary Knight on a one-year contract for its inaugural season in 2025-26.
Knight, formerly of the Boston Fleet, was last season’s co-points leader (29), and is a finalist for the Billie Jean King MVP award and the 2025 PWHL Forward of the Year.
“Signing Hilary Knight was an absolute no-brainer — she’s the heartbeat of any team she joins,” PWHL Seattle general manager Meghan Turner said in a statement. “Her proven leadership and drive, the way she elevates everyone around her, those are qualities you can’t teach. Hilary’s not just a game-changer on the ice, she’s the kind of person who defines a culture, and we’re incredibly proud to have her as the first-ever player to join PWHL Seattle.”
The 35-year-old Knight captained the Fleet previously, even helping Boston make a run to the Walter Cup Finals in the PWHL’s inaugural campaign. She’s tallied a total of 40 points (21 goals, 19 assists) through 54 regular-season appearances with the Fleet. In 2024-25, Knight finished with 15 goals, tied second in the league, and 14 assists through 30 games.
Internationally, Knight has represented the United States at four consecutive Olympics, winning one gold and three silver medals — holding the record for most Olympic games played by a U.S. women’s hockey player. She is also the all-time IIHF women’s world championships leader for goals, assists and points.
“I’m incredibly proud to be part of bringing professional women’s hockey to the Pacific Northwest,” said Knight. “Seattle holds a special place in my heart, and I’m beyond excited to join PWHL Seattle in such a storied sports city. I’m grateful to Meghan Turner for believing in me and bringing me on board as part of this new chapter. To my teammates, the staff, and the fans of Boston — thank you. The Fleet wasn’t just a team, it was home. These past two seasons were some of the most meaningful of my career, and I’ll carry those memories with me forever.”