Top Targets For The PWHL's "Expansion Franchise Offers" And "Foundational Player Offers"

Players on expiring contracts in the PWHL could be tendered new offers from the incoming expansion teams. These offers, called an "Expansion Franchise Offer" and "Foundational Player Offer" are part of Phase 2 of the PWHL expansion player dispersal process. Since the Expansion Franchise Offer comes with a minimum $100,000 tag, or a player's current salary, whichever is higher, it's likely this type of contract will only be offered to players currently making more than $80,000 , although there are a few who have been so grossly underpaid, like Toronto's Daryl Watts, that could easily command, and deserve this type of money.

With the Foundational Player Offer coming with an $80,000 salary, this is a spot where players who weren't signed to one of the 36 foundational contracts in the inaugural season, but have since outperformed those players, could make a significant jump forward in their pay. It could also be a place where an aging veteran, or a player who didn't perform up to contract expectations could be a veteran boost while staying close to their current salary for two more seasons, as these deals are for two years. There are close to 120 players eligible for these offers, but who could legitimately receive one?

Here's a look at five candidates for each. Expansion Franchise Offer Daryl Watts, Toronto - There's no way that Toronto doesn't pitch Daryl Watts a contract to attempt to protect her. The contract will need to be well north of $100,000, otherwise the superstar will have every incentive to test the waters.

Blayre Turnbull, Toronto - The intangibles make it worth it. There's a good chance Turnbull will be exposed, and if she is, it's not a stretch to imagine a team making this type of offer. Jessie Eldridge, Boston - Eldridge has produced for three different PWHL teams.