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Three Rookie Skaters Sign NWHL Deals

The NWHL announced three rookie signings today. There are now 38 NWHL players under contract for the 2017-18 season - and a slowly growing rookie class that now features two goaltenders and four skaters.

Last season undrafted rookies played a huge role for most of the NWHL’s franchises - especially the New York Riveters. Two of today’s signings could be part of that next wave of unheralded talent.

Paige Savage | Forward, Northeastern

Savage was originally a draft pick of the Connecticut Whale, but she has agreed to terms to play forward with the Boston Pride.

“After my time in Northeastern, Boston has become my home,” Savage shared in the league’s press release. “I definitely am not ready to give up hockey, and the NWHL  gives me a chance to pursue my dream. I also want to search for coaching  opportunities in the area.”

Savage scored 106 points in 149 career games with the Northeastern Huskies. She finished fourth on the team in scoring in her senior season.

Rachael Ade | Defender, Vermont

Ade had a strong showing in the NWHL’s free agency camp in Boston. She clearly impressed the Connecticut Whale, who chose to sign the undrafted rookie free agent and add her to the blue line.

Ade had a big senior season for the Catamounts. She scored seven power play goals and two game winning goals from the blue line. She was also on the ice for more goals for than any other Catamount last season.

With Ade signed the Whale now have five defenders under contract. Which means that Connecticut is looking for just one more blueliner in free agency to complete its defense.

Lindsey Hylwa | Forward, RPI

New York has never been shy about searching for players with chemistry. It looks like that tradition is continuing. The Riveters now have three RPI Engineers signed for the 2017-18 NWHL season: Alexa Gruschow, Lauren Wash and now rookie Lindsey Hylwa.

Hylwa is a defensive center who won 52 percent of her draws last season with the Engineers. All signs point to her centering the Riveters third line which would mean that Tatiana Rafter would move up the depth chart to the second line.

Before becoming RPI’s captain in her senior season Hylwa played in the girls’ program of the Junior Carolina Hurricanes from 2007-2011. She will bring size and strength to the Riveters.

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