Kashawn Aitcheson, a defenceman with roots in Jamaica and Canada, was the primary Black participant chosen within the 2025 NHL Draft in June. The 18-year-old was picked seventeenth general by the New York Islanders after a breakout season within the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) with the Barrie Colts.
Early Life and Jamaican Connection
Born on September 21, 2006, in Toronto, Ontario, Aitcheson developed his expertise in Scarborough. He spent a lot of his childhood close to the Ted Reeve Group Enviornment, a hub for youth hockey within the space. His Jamaican father and Canadian mom supported his love for the sport, and his uncle, who performed Junior A and NCAA Division III hockey, performed a key function in encouraging his growth.
Journey to the NHL
Aitcheson’s path to the NHL was formed by self-discipline, household assist, and a powerful work ethic. After signing with the Barrie Colts in August 2022, he started to construct a strong status on the ice. His rookie season in 2022–23 was modest, with one purpose and two assists in 23 video games. However by the 2023–24 season, he had stepped up considerably, posting eight objectives and 31 assists over 64 video games.
Worldwide Success
In the course of the 2024–25 season, Aitcheson hit a brand new degree. He recorded 26 objectives and 33 assists in 64 video games, setting a single-season document for goals by a defenceman in Barrie Colts history. His play earned him a spot on the OHL’s Second All-Star Crew and an invite to the CHL/USA Prospects Problem. He additionally represented Canada on the 2024 IIHF World U18 Championships in Finland, the place he helped the workforce safe a gold medal.
Management
Regardless of that problem, Aitcheson remained targeted and continued to develop as a participant and chief. He wore the assistant captain’s “A” for Barrie and is anticipated to tackle a good higher management function within the upcoming season. His efficiency on the ice, paired along with his maturity off it, made him a high prospect within the 2025 draft.
Rising Draft Inventory
Scouts praised Aitcheson for his mixture of toughness, ability, and management. Whereas some identified areas for progress, similar to enhancing skating explosiveness and decision-making below stress, many had been impressed by his offensive growth and dedication to workforce play.
First-Spherical Decide
He was ranked ninth amongst North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting and was thirteenth general on TSN’s record of high draft-eligible gamers. His choice by the Islanders at seventeenth within the first spherical marked a big second not just for his profession but in addition for illustration within the NHL.
Picture – Kashawn Aitcheson Instagram
