Kashawn Aitcheson is enjoying a record-setting season, but when it comes time for the accolades the Barrie Colts defenceman never hesitates to first give credit to his coaches and teammates.
So, when the top NHL prospect drove home his 23rd goal from the top of the slot in Barrie’s 3-2 win in Sault Ste. Marie on Friday night to tie Brandt Clarke, Aaron Ekblad, and Andrew Marshall for the franchise’s single season scoring record among defencemen, he naturally did what he always does.
“None of it would have happened without each and every one of these players or the coaching staff, so it’s a credit to them,” said the third-year Colt who is expected to be selected in the first round of the upcoming 2025 NHL Draft to be held in Los Angeles on June 27-28.
Marty Williamson was certainly happy for his physical blueliner.
I am,” Williamson said of his excitement for Aitcheson. “He’s playing his heart out. It was probably around 30 minutes tonight and he’s doing just a phenomenal job for us.”
Aitcheson now has seven games remaining to set the record. NHL scouts have watched as the six-foot-one, 198-pound defender has taken his game to a completely different level this season.
Arguably the OHL’s best open-ice hitter, the punishing point man has blossomed offensively. After recording eight goals and 39 points in 64 games last season, Aitcheson has 23 goals and 51 points in 58 games this year.
That’s not mentioning his late-game heroics where he is tied with Sudbury’s Kieron Walton for the most overtime winners with four and is among the league leaders in game-winning goals with six.
“My first year I didn’t play much and then had my first full year last year,” said Aitcheson of the reason for his big step forward. “I think it’s just the time and the experience in this league.”
As for getting that 24th goal and claiming the Colts’ record for himself, Aitcheson allows himself a little excitement about the feat.
“That would be super cool,” he said.
