Jordyn Huitema Set to Transform OL Reign’s Attack
Canadian striker Jordyn Huitema, following a successful stint at Paris Saint-Germain, is on the verge of returning to North America to join OL Reign. Her imminent arrival comes at a pivotal time for the Seattle-based NWSL club, which is strengthening its squad with a blend of experience and young talent. With Huitema expected to be a long-term addition, her dynamic playing style could be the solution OL Reign needs to revive its offense. Here’s an in-depth look at why Huitema’s move to OL Reign could reshape the team’s attacking fortunes in the NWSL.
The Need for a Clinical Finisher in OL Reign’s Frontline
Since the departure of Jodie Taylor in 2020, OL Reign has struggled to find a reliable natural striker to lead the attack. Bethany Balcer has shouldered much of the responsibility but, despite her abilities and past scoring record, the team’s output up front has remained underwhelming. In 2022, Rose Lavelle led Reign’s scoring charts with only two goals in eight appearances, while Balcer, who scored nine times in the previous season, had managed just one goal so far that year.
By mid-season, OL Reign stood near the bottom of the league for goals per game, registering an average of only 0.8—remarkably, surpassing only NJ/NY Gotham. These numbers highlight a pressing need for an offensive catalyst, someone with the instinct and skills to convert opportunities consistently. Huitema’s reputation as a smart, pacy forward makes her arrival a potential turning point for Laura Harvey’s side.
Integrating a New Attacker Without Disrupting Team Chemistry
While bolstering the attack is a priority, OL Reign must also ensure that any newcomer blends seamlessly into its sophisticated style of play. Under Laura Harvey, the team is renowned for building attacks patiently and utilizing midfield creativity to develop scoring chances, often using the center forward to link up and hold possession. The right addition needs to not only improve the team’s finishing but also complement its possession-oriented strategy.
Jordyn Huitema checks all these boxes. Known for her ability to contribute in buildup play and facilitate chances for her teammates, she promises both efficiency and elegance in the final third. Huitema’s versatility will allow Harvey to experiment with different attacking setups without compromising team cohesion.
Jordyn Huitema’s Strengths and Playing Profile
Huitema stands out as a modern striker with a rare mix of speed, technical skill, and aerial dominance. At 5’10” (178cm), she is an imposing presence in the box and poses a constant threat on crosses or set pieces—an important attribute for a team like OL Reign, which leads the NWSL in successful crosses (7.3 per game) and accurate long passes (28.1 per game), according to recent statistics.
– Excellent at timing her runs and finishing with both feet and her head
– Strong aerial duel success, winning 73% of her duels in the latest UEFA Women’s Champions League campaign
– Demonstrated efficiency: scored 6 goals and contributed 2 assists in just 7 Champions League matches, averaging a goal every 50 minutes and achieving a 33% conversion rate
Huitema’s skill set means that OL Reign can maintain their crossing and link-up approach, regardless of whether Balcer leads the line or Huitema takes on the primary striker role.
Impact on Reign’s Tactical Approach and Potential Lineup Changes
Huitema’s ability to operate across all forward positions gives Laura Harvey plenty of tactical options. Not only can Huitema slot in as a central striker, but her agility and off-the-ball movement make her suited for supporting roles across the frontline. Even when she filled more of a supporting role at PSG, Huitema maximized her limited minutes with a clinical scoring rate—a trend she’ll be keen to replicate as a regular starter in the NWSL.
With Balcer also comfortable dropping deeper or drifting wide, Reign could leverage Huitema’s goal-poaching instincts and physical presence to diversify their attacking strategies. Whether used as a lone striker or in a two-forward setup, Huitema’s adaptability is a significant asset for Harvey’s side.
Defensive Contribution and Fit with Reign’s Pressing System
Huitema is not just about attacking output—her work rate off the ball aligns with OL Reign’s high-energy pressing style. The club ranks among the league’s best at winning the ball in advanced areas (8.9 recoveries per game in the final third) and executes a strong collective press, ranking second in the NWSL for successful tackles per match (14.9).
The Canadian forward’s stamina, strength, and tactical understanding mean she can actively participate in Reign’s pressing schemes. Her 70% duel win rate in the Champions League last season underscores her effectiveness in both offensive and defensive transitions.
Looking Ahead: What Huitema’s Arrival Means for OL Reign
Jordyn Huitema’s expected transfer marks a significant addition for OL Reign at a critical moment in their season. She brings a proven record of goal-scoring, positional intelligence, and complementary qualities that fit both the team’s tactical needs and locker room dynamic. More than just a temporary fix, Huitema’s signing could be the catalyst OL Reign needs to transform their attacking approach and compete for NWSL honors.
If the deal is finalized, OL Reign supporters can look forward to a brighter, more potent attack with Huitema leading the charge into the second half of the season.
