If the New York Rangers keep the 12th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft and this specific prospect is available, the team should select Kashawn Aitcheson.
The Rangers could use more defensemen in their pipeline and Aitcheson has the body type and skill set to be a quality NHL defenseman in the future.
Standing at about 6-foot-1, 198 pounds, Aitcheson uses his size and frame to his advantage as he plays a physically demanding game, a perfect quality in a blueliner.
In addition to his steady defensive presence, the 18-year-old prospect boasts an impressive offensive arsenal for a defenseman, making him the ultimate package.
“Aitcheson is one of my favorite prospects in the draft,” Steven Ellis of Daily Faceoff wrote. “He has the potential to be an intimidating force in the NHL – someone who just gives opponents nothing to work with. His physicality is the best attribute of his game because he’s willing to get involved with just about anyone. Aitcheson already has 20 goals, which is no small feat for an OHL defenseman.”
In 64 games with the Barrie Colts of the Ontario Hockey League this past season, Aitcheson recorded 26 goals, 33 assists, and 59 points.
The majority of mock drafts have Aitcheson going in the vicinity of the Rangers’ pick and he’s expected to be one of the first defensemen off the board.
Keep your eyes out for Aitcheson because he’s one of the more intriguing prospects that could fall to the Blueshirts.
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