The New York Sirens are under new leadership on the bench, with new star players, in a new arena. It’s a lot of uncertainty that the Sirens will look to deal with in the early going this season to avoid another last place finish.
Here’s a look at three burning questions the New York Sirens will look to answer.
Can Greg Fargo reign in New York’s stars?
Howie Draper couldn’t, but don’t expect the same issue with Fargo and co. It may be equal parts a new coaching staff, mixed with the presence of new and notable players. Sarah Fillier, Noora Tulus, and Maja Nylen Persson will shift the power dynamic away from the veterans who called the shots last year, and force a new path forward. Before that happens however, New York has to get Fillier signed, as she’s the only member of the PWHL Draft’s first round who remains without a contract. The impact of Josh Sciba on the roster shouldn’t be overlooked either. With a direct line to USA’s national program, Sciba will keep a close eye on Alex Carpenter and Abby Roque which should help as well. The biggest thing Fargo and his staff will need to do it get their team to play defence. New York’s defensive play, including from their blueline, was abysmal last season.
Will the Prudential Center become their forever home?
New York’s best attendance of last season came at New Jersey’s Prudential Center, home of the NHL’s New Jersey Devils. It’s not uncommon for New York teams to play in Jersey, as the New York Giants, New York Jets, New York Red Bull and others all call the state home. The Sirens will benefit in many logistical ways, including ease of travel for a larger population compared to either Long Island or in particular, Bridgeport. Another is housing and proximity to practice facilities. While the Prudential Center had a small sample size for the Sirens last season, there’s reason to hope. It’s not the first time professional women’s hockey has called the Prudential Center home as the PHF’s Metopolitan Riveters spent a season at the facility. The PWHL is certainly hoping this can become a long term solution. It would, however, be fun to see the Sirens play a game at Madison Square Garden this season.
How will New York’s camp battles end?
New York enters with roster spots open come training camp. Their blueline looks to be wrapped up with only one spot left in their top six, and the still unsigned Ally Simpson as the odds on favorite. Chayla Edwards, Madison Bizal, and returning veterans will fight it out for the 7th and 8th spots. Edwards is one to watch as a steadying presence who could surprise. Up front, it looks like a long list of returning players will be fighting it out with unsigned draft picks including Elle Hartje, Emmy Fecteau, and Gabby Rosenthal. Hartje is a safe bet, and there’s few who doubt the intangibles Fecteau brings. Rosenthal, after taking a season away from hockey, is a wildcard. They’ll be pushed by returning veterans in a fight for contracts.
View the original article to see embedded media.
