What happened: Brändli, a goaltender, was Detroit’s first-ever draft choice at No. 15 overall and the first goalie selected in 2026. Borgiel, a Port Huron defender chosen 22nd, joins for the inaugural 2026-27 campaign.
Why it matters: The deals put the first two members of Detroit’s six-player inaugural draft class under contract. Brändli adds extensive international experience, while Borgiel gives the blue line a locally developed prospect.
By the numbers: Brändli posted a league-leading .945 save percentage and a 1.49 goals-against average with Frölunda in 2025-26, after recording a .953 save percentage and 1.94 GAA at the 2026 Olympics. Borgiel totaled 50 points across 75 games in her two Colgate seasons, including four goals and 21 points in 36 games last season.
What to watch: Detroit can now turn to agreements with the remaining four members of its inaugural draft class before opening night at Little Arena.