Laila Edwards enters the 2026 PWHL Draft as one of the most intriguing and dynamic prospects available, bringing a rare combination of size, skill, and offensive upside that few players in the class can match.
The University of Wisconsin star established herself as one of the NCAA’s premier players during her collegiate career, culminating in another dominant season in 2025-26. A centerpiece of Wisconsin’s attack, Edwards combined elite scoring touch with high-end puck skills and the ability to impact games in a variety of ways. Her blend of power and finesse consistently made her one of the most difficult matchups in college hockey. She has also shown her skills on the blueline and now projects as a dominant defender who will nonetheless produce offense.
Learn more about Edwards, who comes from Cleveland and attended Bishop Kearny High School in Rochester, NY, in her 2026 Draft Prospects Video:
Edwards arrives at the pro level with significant international experience at the highest level. She has become a key member of the United States national team and was a crucial part of the American roster that captured gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Edwards finished third in scoring in Milano Cortina with eight points (2G, 6A), and her ability to contribute in high-pressure situations against the best competition in the world further reinforced her standing as one of the most PWHL-ready players available in this draft class.
Edwards went deep on these topics with hosts Emma Buckles and Florence Schelling on Jocks Next Gen recently. Check that out here:
With an almost unprecedented mix of size and skill, proven production, and championship experience at both the collegiate and international levels, Edwards enters the 2026 PWHL Draft as one of its most coveted prospects.
Header photo c/o University of Wisconsin Athletics
