New York Islanders Sign Top Prospect to 3-Year Contract

The New York Islanders are solidifying their blueline for years to come.

The Isles announced on Tuesday, they've signed former first-round pick Kashawn Aitcheson to a three-year, entry-level contract. Aitcheson is known as one of the best defenceman outside the NHL and is notoriously a bone-crushing defender, who isn't afraid to step up and lay huge hits in open ice.

The 19-year-old blueliner leads all Ontario Hockey League (OHL) defensemen in goals (28), power-play goals (15), points (70) and plus+45 through 54 games with the Barrie Colts so far this season. Aitcheson's 15 power-play goals are the fourth-most among all OHL skaters.

Per the team's statement:

Aitcheson was named captain for 2025-26, Aitcheson is in his fourth season with Barrie and has set career highs in goals, assists and points. He also recently set franchise records for the most goals in a single season (28) and the most points all-time by a defenseman (171) in Colts history. The 6’2”, 200-pound blueliner was named OHL Defenseman of the Month for January and February. Aitcheson has recorded 171 points (63 goals, 108 assists) and 335 penalty minutes in 205 career regular season games with Barrie. He was named to the OHL Second All-Star Team following the 2024-25 season.

Aitcheson was selected 17th overall in 2025 and joins a very solid Islanders blueline, who of course, has rookie sensation Matthew Schaefer leading the charge.

Photo credit: Nick Wosika-Imagn Images