The Metropolitan Riveters 2018-2019 roster is coming into fruition. Earlier this week, they re-signed three key defensemen in Courtney Burke, Jenny Ryan and Michelle Picard. These are three very significant signings if the Riveters want to position themselves for a repeat run. Let’s break each of them down individually.

Courtney Burke, 23, led the league in scoring for defensemen last season, putting up 19 points (2 G 17 A). Her 17 assists were the highest in the league among all defensemen, and it shows that she can move the puck very well. She now has 33 points in her two-year career and will only look to increase upon those totals for her third season with the Riveters.

Jenny Ryan, 23, was a rookie of the year finalist during the 2017-18 season and for very good reason. She was right up there with Burke in scoring, notching 17 points (3 G 14 A). Being a rookie, these are considerably good numbers for a defenseman on the offensive side of their game. She played a vital role in the core last season, during which she spent most of her time being paired with Burke. You can imagine whoever the Riveters next coach will be, won’t hesitate to keep this pair together again for 2018-2019.

Michelle Picard, 25, did not score a goal last season, but did posted five big assists. Thanks to her defensive mates mentioned above, her offensive output went a little unnoticed, she put 28 shots on goal last season, always seeming to create great chances for Metropolitan. She also acted like a brick wall out in the slot as she was credited with 20 blocked shots last season, and has 48 for her two-year career. This will be a very big help to Katie Fitzgerald next season.

The Riveters are not far from forming a full roster. There is plenty of work to be done, but nonetheless, these three signings are absolutely key if they want any chance at being repeat champions. Be on the lookout for more Riveters updates as the offseason continues.