New York Islanders 2025 first-round pick Kashawn Aitcheson is expected to return to the Ontario Hockey League’s Barrie Colts for the 2025-26 season, according to multiple reports.
On Thursday, former OHL scout Ryan McArthur tweeted that “the NCAA is not an option for Aitcheson,” adding that it “sounds like he will be back with Barrie” this fall. The 17th overall selection in June’s NHL Draft had previously kept his options open, including a potential move to the NCAA, before opting for another season in junior.
Aitcheson, 19, emerged as one of the OHL’s most feared and physical defensemen last season while also taking a major step forward offensively. He scored 26 goals — third-most among OHL blueliners — and added 33 assists for 59 points in 68 games, with nine of his goals coming on the power play.
While his goal-scoring touch is already NHL-ready, analysts suggest his return to Barrie will give him the opportunity to refine his playmaking ability and log heavy minutes. “He’s proven that he can score,” McArthur noted. “Now, going back to improve his playmaking abilities while playing 25 minutes a night is a good decision for his development.”
With top OHL defensemen like Zayne Parekh and Sam Dickinson likely to make the jump to the NHL if they crack their respective rosters, Aitcheson could become one of the league’s most dominant all-around blueliners this season. For the Islanders, Aitcheson’s decision means their prized first-rounder will gain another year of top-pair experience before potentially competing for a spot on Long Island or Bridgeport in 2026-27.