In the midst of dominating the OHL this season, New York Islanders d-man prospect Kashawn Aitcheson (2025 1st round, 17th overall) of the Barrie Colts has signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the team. The rugged, old-school blueliner also has fantastic offensive skill, as showcased by his 70 points (28G 42A) in 54 games. in addition to his 171 career OHL points, Aitcheson also has amassed 335 penalty minutes. His contract will commence with the 2026-27 season, and carries a cap hit of $1,075,000 per annum.
Aitcheson will remain with Barrie this season, where he has led the Colts to the regular season Eastern Conference championship. The OHL playoffs begin later this month, and will feature eight teams from each conference competing for a chance to square off for the Memorial Cup in Kelowna, BC.
TSN’s Craig Button listed Aitcheson as the NHL’s 17th-ranked affiliated prospect among the league’s top 50 prospects not yet competing with their big club.
https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/911129/kashawn-aitcheson