Kashawn Aitcheson was pure value at No, 17. His love of open ice hitting is going to make him a fan favorite from the second he joins the organization, and he’s a brilliant complement to Schaefer, who plays a more positional, control style game. There’s a very real chance Schaefer and Aitcheson can be a top line pairing for the next decade.

Islanders GM and EVP Mathieu Darche is “beyond excited” winger Victor Eklund and defenseman Kashawn Aitcheson were available

Welcome to my complete review of the 2025 NHL Draft classes of all 32 teams, including thoughts on almost all of the 224 prospects selected. This annual year-end analysis follows a season of travel and countless viewings and conversations with coaches,