The New York Islanders made waves at the 2025 NHL Entry Draft by selecting KaShawn Aitcheson from the Ontario Hockey League's (OHL) Barrie Colts with the 17th overall pick. The 6-foot-1, 198-pound defenseman is known for his physicality and offensive capabilities, making him a valuable two-way threat.

Aitcheson's selection followed a significant trade where the Islanders sent defenseman Noah Dobson to the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for forward Emil Heineman and the 16th and 17th overall picks, highlighting the team's strategic moves to bolster their roster. With the 16th pick acquired from Montreal, the Islanders selected Victor Eklund.

Born on September 21, 2006, Aitcheson is a Toronto native who has steadily developed his game with the Barrie Colts. Over the 2024-25 season, he recorded 26 goals and 33 assists for a total of 59 points in 64 games, placing him among the top-scoring defensemen in the OHL. His offensive output also includes 12 points (six goals, six assists) in 16 playoff games. In recognition of his progress, Aitcheson was named to the OHL's Second All-Star Team.

Aitcheson's strengths lie in his physicality and defensive presence. He consistently finishes his checks, making opponents think twice before entering high-danger areas. According to Elite Prospects, Aitcheson enjoys seeing attackers approach with their heads down and hunts for big open-ice hits. Scouts describe him as a throwback defenseman who is a spot defender in his zone, forcing attackers to take a longer route to find space.

While Aitcheson possesses a strong physical game, he has also demonstrated offensive capabilities. He boasts a heavy and accurate shot from the point and can jump into the slot to create pressure. His offensive game flows through his ability to find space and his powerful point shot, which has made him one of the top-scoring defensemen in the OHL.

Aitcheson's improved discipline and awareness are evident in his decreased penalty minutes compared to the previous season. Barrie Colts general manager Marty Williamson noted that Aitcheson isn't a dirty player but plays a hard-nosed game with great leadership qualities.

NHL Central Scouting Vice President Dan Marr is a big fan of Aitcheson. Marr noted that Aitcheson is the kind of player you want on your team, a consummate team player with the skills, hockey sense, and intuition to know when to increase his physical game or generate scoring chances. Marr suggests that Aitcheson could even win a trophy in the future.

Although described as a mobile, physical, two-way defenseman, some scouts suggest that Aitcheson needs to improve his skating power and can be error-prone. Some also note that he sometimes lets his emotions get the best of him. However, his strengths and potential as a two-way defenseman have led to comparisons to NHL players like Charlie McAvoy of the Boston Bruins and Jacob Trouba of the Anaheim Ducks.

Overall, Kashawn Aitcheson is a well-rounded prospect with a unique blend of physicality, offensive skills, and a team-first mentality. While there are areas for improvement, his high ceiling and potential to become a dependable, minute-eating NHL defender make him a valuable addition to the New York Islanders.