The 2025 NHL draft was a great haul for the New York Islanders. The first round alone saw the Isles’ land three top-notch candidates: first overall pick and Calder Trophy front-runner Matthew Schaefer, Swedish Hockey League professional forward Victor Eklund, and OHL d-men goals leader Kashawn Aitcheson (17th overall). However, numerous scouts are of the opinion that 7th-rounder (202nd overall) Jacob Kvasnicka may have been the steal of the draft.
Skating for Penticton in the WHL, the right winger from Minnesota has 35 points (14G 21A) in 30 games thus far, putting him on pace for 78 points. Although slightly undersized at 5’11, his primary assets are both foot and hand speed, and is projected as being a very valuable depth piece in the future for New York’s offensive attack.
Kvasnicka made the jump to the CHL after playing two seasons for USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program. He will return to his home state next year, as he is committed to attending the University of Minnesota in the fall.