The Ottawa Charge made a couple of major changes to their roster recently. They signed forward Olivia Wallin to a PWHL Standard Player Agreement while parting ways with defender Sam Isbell in a corresponding roster move.

The dual transaction seems like a shift in strategy for the Charge, who currently sit fifth in the PWHL standings and are likely banking on offensive reinforcement as they push for a playoff position.

Wallin earns promotion after proving herself

The 23-year-old has worked her way up from the team’s Reserve Player list to earn a full-time contract. Wallin initially got her chance in December when Ottawa activated her on a 10-day deal, and she made enough of an impression in two appearances to warrant permanent roster status.

The young forward has already shown some elite offensive production at the collegiate level. Wallin wrapped up an impressive five-year NCAA career by dominating with the University of Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs in 2024–25. Her 40 points in 39 games are tied for the team lead. This scoring touch made her an attractive option despite being cut earlier in her professional journey.

The 5-foot-7 forward was originally drafted 47th overall by the Seattle Torrent in the sixth round of the 2025 PWHL Draft. They are currently in their inaugural season in the PWHL. She even scored in her single preseason game against Vancouver before being released. This was a decision that had looked questionable even then.

Isbell casualty of numbers game

To make room for Wallin’s promotion, Ottawa released defender Sam Isbell, who managed one assist across eight games this season. She had been healthy scratched since January third.

While Isbell’s departure is the end of her tenure with the Charge, it apparently comes from the organization’s need to strengthen its offensive output in a competitive playoff race.

The Ottawa Charge release defender Sam Isbell. She had played 8 games this season but had been scratched since Jan. 3.

Reserve forward Liv Wallin signs an SPA and replaces Isbell on the active roster.

— Kyle Cushman (@Kyle_Cush) January 30, 2026

Their roster now features thirteen forwards, seven defenders and three goaltenders.

Timing critical for Charge’s playoff hopes

With a 4–5–0–7 record for 22 points through 16 games until the international break for the Olympics, Ottawa sits just outside the playoff picture at .450 points percentage. They trail the fourth-place New York Sirens by only two points right now.

The Charge has scored 40 goals this season. Respectable, but lagging behind contenders like Minnesota (48) and Boston (34 in fewer games). Adding a proven collegiate scorer like Wallin could be the difference-maker. Especially, as Ottawa battles to extend its season beyond the regular campaign.

For Wallin, it’s redemption. For Isbell, it’s an unfortunate end.