San Jose’s newest PWHL expansion team secured forward Kristen O’Neill on a two‑year contract worth a minimum of $100,000 annually, a significant raise from her $86,872 salary with the New York Sirens last season. The deal, announced Saturday, marks a key step in building the franchise’s roster ahead of the league’s next season.

O’Neill’s Olympic Silver Adds Prestige to San Jose’s Roster

According to the PWHL announcement, O’Neill earned a silver medal with Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, scoring three goals and two assists in seven games.. Her international pedigree, the first Olympic appearance in her career, brings a high‑profile narrative to the expansion franchise and is likely to attract Bay Area fans.

Pay Increase Signals San Jose’s Commitment to Competitive Depth

The contract guarantees O’Neill at least $100,000 per year, a noticeable jump from her previous season’s earnings. The PWHL’s Expansion Foundational Offer ensures the player’s salary exceeds the league minimum, underscoring San Jose’s intent to assemble a competitive lineup.

Strategic Placement on the Exclusive Negotiation Target List

O’Neill is likely the second player on San Jose’s Exclusive Negotiation Target List, indicating the team’s focused strategy to secure top talent early. The move follows the signing of goaltender Corinne Schroeder, defender Rory Guilday, and forward Anne Cherkowski, the franchise’s first four players.

Previous PWHL Experience and Draft History

The forward was originally selected seventh overall in the inaugural PWHL Draft, spent two seasons with the Montreal Victoire,and finished her time with the New York Sirens with four goals and one assist in 30 games. In 83 career PWHL games, she has tallied nine goals and ten assists for 19 points.

Unanswered Questions About San Jose’s Long‑Term Roster Building

While the deal confirms O’Neill’s role, the expansion franchise has yet to disclose its full roster strategy, including how it plans to balance veteran presence with emerging talent. additionally,the exact salary cap implications of the Expansion Foundational Offer remain unclear.