Islanders' Young Stars Rising | NHL News

NHL News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Aug 18, 2026 · 1m

Victor Eklund, the 16th overall pick in 2025, is poised to make his NHL case with a rookie assist and a hungry mindset, while Malte Gustafsson, the 13th overall pick in 2026, shines overseas and prepares for a bigger role with his professional discipline. Kashawn Aitcheson, selected 17th in 2025, brings rare confidence and scoring flair for a defenseman, possibly starting in the AHL but with big camp hopes. Goaltender Dmitry Gamzin, acquired at 115th in 2024, has dominated the KHL with elite stats and is primed for an Islanders debut. And Cole Eiserman, the 20th overall pick in 2024, with…