PWHL Detroit Bolsters Roster with Key Signings of Barnes and Bilka

As the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) prepares for its inaugural 2026-27 season, the newly formed Detroit franchise has made significant moves to solidify its lineup. On June 5, 2026, PWHL Detroit announced the signing of defender Cayla Barnes and forward Hannah Bilka to Standard Player Agreements.

Strategic Roster Additions

The acquisition of Barnes and Bilka represents a major development for the Detroit organization. Both players join the team after previously being under contract with the Seattle Torrent. These signings follow the team’s earlier addition of forward Daryl Watts, who joined the franchise via an Expansion Foundational Offer.

Cayla Barnes, 27, brings extensive professional and international experience to the Detroit blue line. During the 2025-26 season with Seattle, she appeared in 30 games and recorded eight points (3G, 5A). Her leadership capabilities were highlighted midseason when she served as an alternate captain following an injury to Seattle’s captain, Hilary Knight. Barnes was originally the fifth overall pick in the 2024 PWHL Draft by the Montréal Victoire, where she earned a spot on the 2025 PWHL All-Rookie Team.

A Long-Standing Partnership

The duo of Barnes and Bilka carries a history of chemistry that dates back to their collegiate careers. The two played together at Boston College from 2019 to 2023 and reunited at Ohio State for the 2023-24 season, where they were instrumental in leading the Buckeyes to the 2024 NCAA National Championship.

Regarding their new commitments to Detroit:

• Cayla Barnes: Signed a three-year contract extending through the 2028-29 season.
• Hannah Bilka: Signed a two-year contract extending through the 2027-28 campaign.

International Pedigree

Cayla Barnes is a seasoned veteran on the international stage, having represented the United States at three Olympic Winter Games. Her decorated career includes gold medals in 2018 and 2026, a silver medal in 2022, and three gold medals across six appearances at the IIHF Women’s World Championship.

Key Takeaways

• New Beginnings: PWHL Detroit is actively building its inaugural roster ahead of the 2026-27 season.
• Proven Chemistry: Barnes and Bilka share a successful history as collegiate teammates, culminating in a 2024 NCAA title.
• Contract Security: The signings provide Detroit with multi-year stability, with Barnes signed through 2029 and Bilka through 2028.

As Detroit continues to assemble its inaugural roster, the addition of two high-caliber talents like Barnes and Bilka signals a clear intent to be competitive from the league’s opening puck drop. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this core group integrates as the team prepares for its first season in the PWHL.