Taylor Heise Readies for PWHL Season 2 and NHL 25 Debut

As the second season of the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) kicks off, Taylor Heise is brimming with excitement about what’s to come — both on the ice and in the virtual world. The Minnesota Frost center, who took home Playoff MVP honors in the inaugural PWHL season, is eager to build on her team’s success and embrace new opportunities presented by a unique rule change. With her team’s championship banner raising just around the corner, Heise is also looking forward to her virtual debut in the upcoming EA Sports NHL 25 game, where players can now control PWHL athletes for the first time.

One of the most notable changes to the PWHL for the upcoming season is the introduction of the ‘No Escape’ rule, which is already sparking excitement among players like Heise. This rule will prohibit teams from changing their personnel when they take a penalty, creating potential power-play opportunities against tired defenders. Heise, who thrives in offensive situations, sees this rule as a major advantage for teams on the power play.

“It makes you salivate,” Heise remarked, reflecting on the possibilities of exploiting fatigued defenders in those critical moments. Heise’s excitement comes with the knowledge that it places significant pressure on centers to win face-offs. “If you lose that face-off draw, then what’s the point?” she said, acknowledging the added responsibility. But despite the pressure, Heise views the new rule as an exciting challenge, one that encourages the entire team to stay sharp in all aspects of the game, including penalty killing.

Heise also acknowledged that the ‘No Escape’ rule could lead to some unpredictable moments during games. “Things are going to get ugly,” she said, hinting at the potential for confusion if, for example, a defenseman ends up in the penalty box. In these situations, a forward would have to step up and play defense, creating unique dynamics on the ice. Despite the challenges, Heise is optimistic about the impact of the rule on the team’s performance, particularly when they’re on the power play.

Though Heise has been dealing with a knee issue that kept her off the ice during the Frost’s mini-camp in Toronto, she’s confident she’ll be ready for the season opener. Heise, known for her competitive spirit, is listening to her body and taking the necessary steps to ensure her recovery is on track. “There are no heroes in November,” Heise explained, referencing the wisdom of her trainers who have reminded her that there’s no need to push herself too hard too soon. The real goal is to be healthy and ready to compete when the games truly matter.

As the PWHL prepares for its second season, Heise isn’t just looking forward to the real-life action on the ice; she’s also excited about the virtual world’s involvement in the league’s growth. On December 5, EA Sports will release an update to its popular NHL 25 game, featuring all six PWHL teams and their players. This marks a major milestone for women’s hockey, as it will be the first time players like Heise will appear in the game in a capacity that allows fans to play as them.

“I’m excited to play as myself here soon,” Heise said, noting the wave of support she’s already received from fans who are eager to see PWHL players included in the game. “So many people have been reaching out to me, super-excited about us in the PWHL being a part of the EA Sports game,” she added, further underscoring the significance of this virtual representation for women’s hockey.

Female players have been part of the EA Sports NHL franchise since 2022, but only through their national team affiliations. The addition of PWHL teams and players marks a significant leap forward, making women’s hockey more accessible to fans who can now play as athletes from the league in a game that has traditionally been dominated by male players. Heise recognizes the importance of this inclusion, especially for young fans. “Any young girl or any young boy can choose if they want to play as whoever player they want,” Heise explained. “To have people like us, that look like us, that people can play as — that’s a whole different thing.”

Heise also marveled at the attention to detail in the virtual world, including the incorporation of facial recognition and movements. “I’ve gotten screened twice now,” Heise revealed, “and you make some funny faces, whether you get in a fight or you’re driving the net. The facial expressions are insane.” It’s this level of realism that will help bring fans closer to the players and the sport, as they can now experience the game from the perspective of their favorite PWHL stars.

This partnership with EA Sports represents more than just a virtual milestone; it’s part of the PWHL’s ongoing efforts to elevate the visibility of women’s hockey and strengthen its connection with fans. “Our partnership with EA Sports opens new doors to elevate women’s hockey across all levels,” said Amy Scheer, the PWHL’s senior vice president of business operations. “Through this alliance, we’ll develop in-game and out-of-game experiences that strengthen the bond between our teams, players, and fans, bringing the PWHL closer to the global hockey community.”

The excitement surrounding this new collaboration will fuel the PWHL’s growth in the coming season. Fans can look forward to the season opener, which will see the Minnesota Frost, led by Heise, take on the New York Sirens on Sunday at 6 p.m. ET. This game will be part of a weekend doubleheader that will also feature the Sceptres hosting the Boston Fleet and the Montreal Victoire facing off against the Ottawa Charge.

As the PWHL enters its second season, Heise and her teammates are poised to continue making their mark, both in the real world and in the gaming universe. With new rules to navigate, an injury to overcome, and a virtual presence that will inspire future generations, the PWHL’s future is looking brighter than ever.