Kashawn Aitcheson might not have had the World Junior Championship he envisioned, but back in the OHL, he's reminding everyone exactly why the New York Islanders made him the 17th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.
After helping Team Canada to a bronze medal at the WJC, Aitcheson returned to the Barrie Colts and wasted no time picking up where he left off. In January, he was named the OHL’s Defenseman of the Month - and frankly, it wasn’t even close.
Over 11 games, the 19-year-old blueliner racked up three goals and 11 assists, pushing his season total to a league-leading 22 goals among defensemen. That kind of production from the back end is rare, and it’s putting him in some elite company.
Let’s put that into perspective: Aitcheson is on pace for a 33-goal season. In the 46-year history of the Ontario Hockey League, only 22 defensemen have ever hit the 30-goal mark.
If he stays on track, his 33 goals would tie him for 12th all-time. That’s not just impressive - that’s historic.
And it’s not just the numbers that are turning heads. Aitcheson’s game is as physical as it is productive.
He’s become one of the most intimidating presences in the entire CHL, delivering hits that echo through the rink and draw comparisons to Alexander Romanov - a player known for his punishing style since breaking into the NHL in 2020. Aitcheson brings that same edge, that same physical dominance, but with an offensive toolkit that’s still expanding.
What’s especially exciting for Islanders fans is how complete his game is becoming. He’s not just a power-play weapon or a highlight-reel hitter - he’s showing the ability to control the pace of play at both ends of the ice. His vision, skating, and poise under pressure are all trending in the right direction.
Now, don’t expect the Islanders to rush him into the NHL. Their left side is already well-stocked with Matthew Schaefer, Adam Pelech, and Romanov locked in for the next few seasons. That gives Aitcheson the time and space to continue developing - whether that means staying in the OHL or possibly making a move to the NCAA under the new eligibility rules between the CHL and college hockey.
Regardless of the path he takes, the Islanders view Aitcheson as a cornerstone for the future. He’s got the tools, the mentality, and the production to back it all up. If he keeps trending this way, he won’t just be a part of the Islanders’ future - he could be a major force shaping it.