Kashawn Aitcheson (D, L, 6’1″, 198, Barrie Colts, 09/21/2006)
Kashawn Aitcheson is a candidate to be a top 15 selection in the 2025 NHL Draft, with a skill set that blends physicality, mobility, and two-way effectiveness. His size, combined with his willingness to engage physically and defend with grit, makes him an intriguing prospect for NHL teams seeking a defenseman who can control the game from his own zone. Aitcheson has steadily improved throughout his time in the OHL, and with continued development in key areas, he projects as a reliable, top-six NHL defenseman with the potential to become an impactful two-way player.
Strengths:
- Physicality and Intimidation:
Aitcheson’s 6’01”, 195-pound frame allows him to play an intimidating, physical style. He isn’t afraid to use his body to protect his teammates, as evidenced by his 126 penalty minutes in 64 games during the 2023/24 season. His strength in the defensive zone, along with his willingness to stand up for teammates, adds an element of leadership and toughness to his game. While his hit rate is moderate (0.61 hits per game), he uses body positioning effectively to control space and maintain net side positioning throughout his battles. NHL scouts value his ability to bring a physical edge while remaining disciplined, though more frequent use of brute physicality in key moments could elevate his presence. - Skating and Mobility:
Aitcheson moves fluidly for his size. He possesses smooth feet, is agile on his edges, and has the ability to quickly transition without needing to cross-over. His mobility is key to his game, allowing him to recover when beaten by faster opponents and to evade forecheckers when exiting the defensive zone. His ability to log significant minutes (22:39 per game) and manage tough defensive assignments speaks to his conditioning and skating ability. He works at controlling his gaps and maintaining defensive structure, making him difficult to beat one-on-one. - Defensive Play and Puck Battles:
Aitcheson is a conscientious defender, spending 59% of his ice time last season in the defensive zone, where he is effective in closing down space and winning 53% of his 50/50 puck battles. His 7 takeaways per game demonstrate his ability to disrupt opposing plays through positioning and anticipation. NHL scouts will appreciate his strong defensive awareness, particularly in penalty-killing situations, where his understanding of lanes and angles makes him a key asset. His shot-blocking rate (1.52 shots blocked per game) reflects his commitment to the defensive side of the game. - Offensive Potential and Playmaking:
While primarily known for his defensive game, Aitcheson’s offensive skill set is also worth monitoring. He recorded 39 points (8 goals, 31 assists) in 64 games, showing his ability to contribute on the power play (2:17 per game) and generate chances from the point. His shot attempts (4.1 per game) and shots on goal (1.95 per game) suggest that he has the potential to be a more consistent offensive threat this year. His 88% pass completion rate and ability to set up teammates in grade “A” scoring positions (0.74 passes per game) reflect his vision and decision-making in the offensive zone. Aitcheson’s ability to jump into the play and make smart, accurate passes makes him a valuable two-way defenseman.
Areas for Improvement:
- Shot Accuracy and Offensive Efficiency:
One area where Aitcheson will need to improve to secure a top-four role at the NHL level is his shot accuracy. While he attempts 4.1 shots per game, only 1.95 hit the net, with 1.22 being blocked. For a defenseman of his caliber, this rate is too high. Developing more elusiveness and deception from the point—whether through quicker releases or improved lateral mobility—will allow him to get more shots through traffic. By increasing his ability to get pucks on net, he could become a more dynamic offensive weapon, especially on the power play. - Consistency in Puck Management:
Aitcheson’s 5.7 giveaways per game may be a concern, although many come from situations where he’s forced to make a quick play, like dumping the puck out of the defensive zone to relieve pressure. However, to reach his potential in professional hockey, he’ll need to further refine his decision-making under pressure, particularly in “grey areas”. Reducing turnovers while maintaining his assertive puck-moving style will make him more reliable in high-stakes situations. - Physical Engagement in All Zones:
While Aitcheson’s penalty minutes and willingness to defend his teammates demonstrate his toughness, scouts will be looking for more consistent physical engagement in his overall game. His hit rate of 0.61 hits per game suggests he could use his size and strength more frequently, especially in neutral zone battles and along the boards. If he can elevate the physical side of his game while maintaining discipline, it will make him an even more imposing presence at the next level.
Outlook for the 2024/25 Season:
During the 2024/25 season, scouts will be focused on Aitcheson’s ability to increase his offensive efficiency while maintaining his solid defensive game. If he can improve his shot accuracy, reduce grey area turnovers, and become a more consistent physical presence, Aitcheson has the potential to rise in the draft rankings. His overall development trajectory suggests that he has the tools to be a top-four NHL defenseman, with a ceiling as a reliable two-way, shutdown defender who can contribute offensively.
Aitcheson’s combination of size, mobility, defensive instincts, and offensive potential makes him a legitimate top-15 candidate in the 2025 NHL Draft. With continued improvement in key areas, he could become a consistent top-four defenseman for an NHL franchise.
Photo Credit: Dan Hickling/ Hickling Images