What Eiserman, Aitcheson Share—And Why It Matters For Islanders
Cole Eiserman and Kashawn Aitcheson have their flaws—but a shared trait is giving the Islanders real confidence they’ll reach the NHL level in time.
Over the last two NHL Drafts, the New York Islanders have done a strong job restocking what had become a depleted prospect pool.
While the 2025-26 season didn’t go the way they wanted, the organization got a glimpse of just how promising that future can be.
Matthew Schaefer, selected first overall in 2025, went from top prospect to star in a hurry.
Cal Ritchie, acquired in the Brock Nelson trade, handled the grind of his first NHL season and looked better by the end than he did at the start.
Fans also got their first look at Victor Eklund, the No. 16 pick in 2025, during his NHL debut, which came in Game 82. Whether he makes the opening-night roster or starts in Hamilton, he looks like a player who should factor into the near future.
And there are still more names coming.
That brings us to forward Cole Eiserman, selected 20th overall in 2024, and defenseman Kashawn Aitcheson, taken 17th overall in 2025.