Hamilton fans have another piece of their inaugural blue line in place: sixth overall pick Nelli Laitinen has signed a three-year contract. The Finnish defender brings Olympic bronze-medal experience and two seasons as University of Minnesota captain to a roster now at 15 players under contract.
Building the blue line
Laitinen is the first player from Hamilton’s six-player inaugural draft class to sign. She joins a defence group that already includes Zoe Boyd, Riley Brengman, Nicole Gosling, Anna Kjellbin, and Allyson Simpson as Hamilton prepares for its first PWHL season.
“Nelli is an exceptional defender who brings intelligence, competitiveness and poise to the game. Her ability to contribute in all areas of the ice, combined with her leadership experience at Minnesota, makes her a player we believe will be an important part of our team for years to come.”
Meghan Duggan, PWHL Hamilton General Manager
College leadership and international experience
The 24-year-old recorded 94 points, including 22 goals and 72 assists, in 145 games over four years at Minnesota. She captained the team for her final two seasons and set career highs with 10 goals, 20 assists and 30 points in 2025-26, earning All-WCHA Second Team honours.
A two-time Olympian, Laitinen won bronze at Beijing 2022. She has also represented Finland at six IIHF Women’s World Championships, winning one silver and three bronze medals, and competed at four U18 Women’s Worlds, earning one bronze.
“I’m extremely happy and excited to be playing in Hamilton for the next three years,” said Laitinen.
What fans need to know
Tickets for Hamilton’s Dec. 13 home opener at TD Coliseum are on sale through Ticketmaster. Single Game Tickets for all other home games go on sale Friday, with Flex Packs and Season Ticket Memberships also available.
Source: official PWHL release.
Source: thepwhl.com
