Size, Speed, Skill, Hockey IQ, Versatility, Laila Edwards has it all. In-coming superstar.
Few players entering the PWHL carry as much intrigue, upside, and long-term fantasy potential as Laila Edwards. After being selected fourth overall by PWHL San Jose in the 2026 PWHL Draft, Edwards immediately becomes one of the most exciting rookie fantasy assets in the league. The former Wisconsin star brings a rare combination of size, skill, hockey IQ, and offensive creativity that could make her a franchise cornerstone from day one.
At 6-foot-1, Edwards possesses a physical profile that is uncommon in women’s hockey. What separates her from many power forwards, however, is her elite skill level. She can beat defenders one-on-one, create offense off the rush, dominate down low, and finish around the net with consistency. Her ability to impact the game in multiple ways made her one of the premier prospects in the 2026 draft class and a natural choice as the first draft pick in San Jose franchise history.
From a fantasy perspective, opportunity is often just as important as talent. Edwards appears positioned to receive both. San Jose enters its inaugural season searching for offensive identity and game-breaking talent, and Edwards projects to play a significant role immediately. The expansion club selected her specifically to help drive offense, and there is every reason to believe she will see top minutes and substantial power-play usage from opening night.
2026/27 Top 20 Defender Rankings
2026/27 Top 100 Player Rankings
One of the most intriguing aspects of Edwards’ game is her versatility. During her final season at Wisconsin and with Team USA, she demonstrated the ability to play both forward and defense at an elite level. While San Jose could utilize that flexibility in certain situations, her fantasy value is highest when she is deployed in an offensive role where her scoring instincts can fully shine. Edwards recorded 45 points in 28 collegiate games while also contributing internationally during Team USA’s Olympic gold medal run, showcasing the offensive ceiling that fantasy managers should be excited about.
The biggest question entering her rookie season is not talent, but supporting cast. Expansion teams typically experience growing pains, and San Jose may not generate offense as consistently as the league’s established contenders. That could suppress Edwards’ overall point totals in the short term. However, elite players tend to create their own production, and Edwards has shown throughout her career that she can drive offense regardless of circumstance.
For fantasy managers in dynasty and keeper formats, Edwards should already be viewed as a foundational asset. She possesses legitimate superstar upside and could develop into one of the PWHL’s premier offensive players over the next several seasons. In redraft leagues, she deserves consideration as one of the top rookie selections and carries realistic breakout potential immediately.
2026/27 Fantasy Projection
Games Played: 30
Goals: 11
Assists: 18
Points: 29
Power-Play Points: 8
Fantasy Outlook
Ceiling: PWHL superstar and Top-5 fantasy forward
Most Likely Outcome: Productive top-line rookie who quickly becomes San Jose’s offensive centerpiece
Risk Level: Moderate (expansion team environment)
Fantasy Grade: A+
The combination of elite talent, premium opportunity, size, skill, and long-term upside makes Laila Edwards one of the most valuable rookie investments entering the 2026/27 fantasy season. She may not immediately challenge for the league scoring title, but few young players possess a higher fantasy ceiling. If everything clicks, Edwards could emerge as one of the defining fantasy stars of the next generation of PWHL hockey.