PWHL Rookie of the Year becomes league’s highest-paid player in landmark contract extension
NEW YORK – August 5, 2025 – The New York Sirens have secured their franchise cornerstone, announcing a two-year contract extension with Sarah Fillier that makes her the highest-paid player in Professional Women’s Hockey League history, according to sources familiar with the deal.
Historic Contract Sets New Standard
The signing represents a “milestone day” for the organization, according to Sirens General Manager Pascal Daoust, who praised Fillier’s impact both on and off the ice.
“(It’s) a true privilege for the New York Sirens organization and our fans to know that we’ll be building the future here in New York with Sarah,” Daoust said. “She brings exceptional talent, leadership, and a relentless will to win — qualities that will elevate every teammate and ignite excitement in every fan.”
While the PWHL Players Association voted in June to disclose salaries for the first time in league history, specific contract details remain confidential at this time.
Dominant Rookie Campaign
Fillier’s record-breaking contract comes after a spectacular debut season that saw her tie for the league scoring lead with 29 points in 30 games, matching U.S. star Hilary Knight’s total. Her offensive production included:
2024-25 PWHL Regular Season Stats:
- Games Played: 30
- Goals: 16
- Assists: 13
- Points: 29 (tied for league lead)
- Plus/Minus: +8
- Penalty Minutes: 12
- Power Play Goals: 6
- Game-Winning Goals: 4
The No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 PWHL Draft proved her draft position was justified, leading all rookies in scoring while demonstrating the versatility to excel at both center and wing positions.
Awards and Recognition
At the recent PWHL Awards ceremony, Fillier’s exceptional rookie campaign earned multiple honors:
- Rookie of the Year (winner)
- First-Team All-Star selection
- Forward of the Year finalist (won by Montreal’s Marie-Philip Poulin)
- All-Rookie Team selection
Her 16 goals ranked second in the league, while her four game-winning goals demonstrated clutch performance in crucial moments for a Sirens team that struggled overall but found consistent offensive production from their franchise player.
Strategic Patience Pays Off
The path to this contract extension began with an unusual one-year deal signed just weeks before the 2024 training camp. Sources indicated Fillier preferred a two-year commitment while the organization sought a three-year term. The compromise allowed both parties to evaluate the partnership.
Fillier’s decision to maintain flexibility proved prescient, coinciding with the PWHL’s expansion to include Seattle and Vancouver franchises. The shorter initial deal also positioned her to capitalize on increased earning potential as the league’s profile continued to rise.
Roster Transformation Supports Star Player
The Sirens underwent significant roster changes this offseason, with Daoust strategically reshaping the team around Fillier’s talents. Despite losing key players including Alex Carpenter, Jessie Eldridge, and goalie Corinne Schroeder during expansion, New York added crucial pieces.
The organization selected Kristýna Kaltounková with the No. 1 pick in the 2025 draft, adding a physical forward with international experience. Strategic trades brought Patty Kazmaier winner Casey O’Brien (acquired via trade with Toronto) and Team Canada forward Kristin O’Neill (from Montreal) to strengthen the supporting cast.
Building for the Future
This contract extension, running through the 2026-27 season, positions the Sirens to build around a talented young core anchored by their franchise player. Following Fillier’s signing, the organization continued strengthening its foundation by adding assistant coach Valérie Bois to the coaching staff, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to building a championship culture.
“I’m really looking forward to what’s ahead,” Fillier said, “and continuing to build something great in the Big Apple.”
The signing represents more than just a contract extension—it’s a statement of intent from both player and organization as the PWHL continues its rapid growth and the Sirens aim to transform from league cellar-dwellers to championship contenders.
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