Jaques, Keller, Winn named finalists for 2026 PWHL Defender of the Year award
A trio of blueliners are being recognized for their impressive performances this past year.
On Wednesday, the PWHL announced that Sophie Jaques of the Vancouver Goldeneyes, along iwth Boston Fleet teammates Megan Keller and Haley Winn, have been named finalists for the 2025-26 Defender of the Year award.
Keller and Winn were part of one of the best defenses in the entire league during the regular season. The Fleet surrendered just 45 goals, second only to the Montreal Victoire. Their efforts were key in helping Boston clinch a spot in the Walter Cup Playoffs in record time, as well as battling with the Victoire for first until the final day of the regular season.
Keller was the most proficient scoring defender in the league this season. With seven goals and 15 assists for 22 points, the Fleet captain led all players at her position in points, tying the league record for points by a blueliner and sitting tied in overall scoring in the PWHL this year. She also potted four power-play goals and three game-winning goals, both the most among defenders. On top of that, her average of ice time 26:40 was second in the PWHL, with a plus/minus of +10 that was tied for fourth among defenders, and tied for 10th in the league, overall.
Winn was not only one of the best defenders in the PWHL this year, but she was also considered to be one of the best rookies as well. The Clarkson graduate played alongside Keller for the entire year, and flourished in her new digs. She led all skaters in average ice time (26:45), finishing third in defensive scoring with five goals and 14 assists for 19 points, tied for second in scoring among first-year players.
Jaques didn’t match her record-breaking performance last year, but she was a bright spot on what was a subpar Goldeneyes team. The two-time Walter Cup champion led Vancouver with 20 points this year, sitting second in scoring at her position, though Jaques led all defenders with nine goals on the year. She was third behind Winn and Keller in time on ice, averaging 24:42 per game.