Susanna Tapani is returning to the Boston Fleet for a third season, re-signing with the PWHL club as Phase 3 of the league's expansion process begins. The four-time Olympian from Finland agreed to a two-year contract to continue her professional career in Boston. Seattle and Montreal also secured their players, with Julia Gosling and Maggie Flaherty committing to stay with their respective teams through new two-year deals.

These re-signings mark the latest moves in Phase 3, where existing teams protect four players while expansion franchises build their rosters. Las Vegas added defender Megan Carter and goalie Nicole Hensley, while Detroit claimed Sydney Bard from Vancouver. Each of the eight established teams can now shield six players total from the expansion draft process.

Tapani's return provides stability for Boston after losing center Alina Muller to Hamilton recently. The 25-year-old forward ranked second on the Fleet with nine goals and fifth with 18 points overall. Gosling, also 25, led Seattle in scoring with 20 points (six goals, 14 assists) following her Olympic debut with Canada. Flaherty brings championship experience, having won three Walter Cups and posting five goals with nine points in regular season play.