BUFFALO, N.Y. — Hilary Knight is experiencing a resurgence as she leads Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) forwards in ice time, well into the league’s second season. At 35, Knight, known as the face of U.S. women’s hockey, plays a crucial role in every game situation. As the captain of the Boston Fleet, her impressive average of nearly 22 minutes per game is a testament to her enduring capabilities. This performance alleviates concerns following a dip in her output last year.
A contributing factor to Knight’s commendable proficiency is that she is injury-free, having addressed an ankle issue over the summer. Freed from the burden of ensuring the smooth operation of the league she helped launch, Knight can now channel her energy into what’s happening on the ice. “We can all just go out there and play a little bit more than before, right?” she remarked during the Fleet’s stop in Buffalo. Knight relishes her ability to just focus on playing without worrying about league logistics.
Knight’s liberation is reflected in her on-ice joy, skating pain-free and reclaiming her form as a four-time Olympian. “I feel like I don’t have as much tread on the tires, considering how many minutes I have,” she remarked. Her delight in playing at her accustomed level is evident. Last season, Knight struggled, finishing tied for 31st with 11 points and 14th in goals. Despite playing all 24 games, she didn’t score in eight playoff games, as Boston fell to Minnesota in the final series.
This year, Knight is rejuvenated, tied for fifth with 17 points and fourth with eight goals through 19 games. Her ice-time average ranks seventh among skaters, demonstrating her consistent form. Knight has scored in all but six games, including two game-winners, pushing Boston into third place thanks to a 6-1 surge. “This year, she’s really settled into being the hockey player we know she is,” Fleet general manager Danielle Marmer said. Her leadership solidified the team’s culture, helping Boston clinch a playoff spot after closing the regular season 4-0-1.
Marmer praised Knight’s defensive contributions, especially in a taxing semifinal against Montreal where Boston won all three games in overtime. “That’s why she’s a winner,” Marmer noted. Even without scoring regularly, Knight’s influence enabled others to seize their chance. Knight brings with her extensive experience: 19 seasons with the U.S. national team, an Olympic gold in 2018, several silvers, and nine world championship golds. She’s poised for her fifth Olympic appearance next year in Italy, health permitting.
Knight stands as the Fleet’s undisputed leader. She metes out practice breaks in consultation with coach Courtney Kessel, balancing tension with humor when needed. Her teammates admire how Knight deftly manages her off-ice obligations, such as interviews and promotional events. “She’s truly a professional. I’ve learned so much from her,” said Fleet and U.S. national team goalie Aerin Frankel, praising Knight’s determination.
Knight’s stellar career milestones were highlighted two years ago when she scored her third world championship gold-medal goal in a hat-trick against Canada. Yet, her competitive spirit leaves her wanting after Boston’s playoff exit last year. “It’s really fun to score. If it’s something you’re supposed to do and you’re not, it’s tough,” she said. Despite setbacks, including her ankle injury, Knight’s resolve remained unshaken.
“That was the mental battle of last year, wanting to show up for the team … knowing I wasn’t where I’d like to be,” Knight expressed. Her commitment to give everything on the ice hasn’t waned, underscoring her hallmark perseverance.
