Colts star drafted by Islanders
Kashawn Aitcheson from the Barrie Colts is off to New York, as he was chosen by the Islanders with the 17th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.
The 18-year-old defenceman totalled 26 goals and 59 points in 64 games with the Colts this past season.
He added six goals and 12 points during Barrie's playoff run to the OHL Eastern Conference Final this spring, including the overtime winner in Game 5 of the second round against the Kingston Frontenacs.
At six-foot-one and 198 pounds, Aitcheson's all-around blend of offence, defence, speed and physicality had him ranked as the 10th-to-20th best prospect in most pre-draft rankings.
The Toronto, Ont. native becomes the first Barrie Colt drafted in the top-20 since Brandt Clarke was selected by the LA Kings at 8th overall in the 2021 NHL Draft.
Kevin Connolly, an actor best known for his role in Entourage, announced Aitcheson's selection.
The Islanders acquired the 17th overall pick earlier in the day in a trade that sent defenceman Noah Dobson to the Montreal Canadiens.
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