On February 27, 2026, the Minnesota Frost announced that their captain, Kendall Coyne Schofield, has been placed on long-term injured reserve (LTIR) effective retroactively from February 19. This decision comes after Coyne Schofield sustained an upper-body injury while representing Team USA at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. To fill the vacancy, forward Élizabeth Giguère was activated from the team’s Reserve Player list and signed under a Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) Standard Player Agreement.
The move highlights the team’s immediate efforts to maintain roster strength as they prepare for upcoming games without their leader.
Frost Management Addresses Player Transition and Support Plans
Frost General Manager Melissa Caruso expressed pride in the Minnesota Frost Olympians’ performance on the global stage. She underscored the organization’s dedication to supporting Coyne Schofield during her recovery process, emphasizing that the medical team will be actively engaged in preparing her for a return to play.
Caruso also noted the advantage of having Giguère, who has been training with the Frost since the season began, ready to contribute immediately.
“I am incredibly proud of all our Frost Olympians who demonstrated true excellence on the world stage,”
said Caruso.
“We are fully committed to supporting Kendall throughout her recovery, and our medical team will be working diligently to help her prepare for her return to the ice. Fortunately, Élizabeth has been training with us since the start of the season, and her skill and experience will be a tremendous asset to our lineup in Kendall’s absence.”
Élizabeth Giguère’s Professional Background and Impact on the Team
Before joining the Minnesota Frost, Élizabeth Giguère spent two seasons with the New York Sirens, appearing in 53 games and recording eight points including five goals and three assists. Her PWHL experience is complemented by an impressive stint with the Boston Pride of the Premier Hockey Federation (PHF) during the 2022-23 season, where she tallied 22 points (6 goals, 16 assists) over 18 games.
Giguère’s international credentials include a national team debut with Team Canada during the Rivalry Series, demonstrating her caliber on the ice. Originating from Québec City, she completed her collegiate career at the University of Minnesota-Duluth after four years at Clarkson University. Notably, Giguère received the Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award in 2020, finishing her five-year NCAA career ranked sixth all-time in scoring with 295 points across 177 games.
Her experience and proven scoring ability are expected to bolster the Frost’s offensive capabilities as they adjust to Coyne Schofield’s absence.
Upcoming Schedule and Team Outlook After the Olympic Break
The Minnesota Frost are set to face the Montréal Victoire on March 1 at 12 p.m. Central Time in Montréal, marking their next challenge following the Olympic pause. Subsequently, the team will return to Grand Casino Arena for their first home appearance of the season on March 13 at 7 p.m. CT.
This transition period will test the depth and resilience of the Frost roster as they strive to maintain competitive momentum amid roster shifts caused by injury and international commitments.
