Islanders' Kashawn Aitcheson Suffers Knee Injury, Remains Day-to-Day After Preseason Hit

The New York Islanders have dealt with injuries to two young players during the preseason. Daylan Kuefler left a game against the Devils with an upper-body injury and is expected to spend most of the 2025-26 season in the AHL with Bridgeport, not making the NHL roster even if he recovers quickly. Meanwhile, defenseman Kashawn Aitcheson suffered a lower-body injury after a knee-on-knee hit in a preseason game versus the Flyers but is expected to be day-to-day and likely to play in the upcoming game against the Devils. Aitcheson, a 17th overall draft pick, has impressed during training camp and is battling for a spot on the Islanders' Opening Night roster, although he may return to juniors after a nine-game look. Head coach Patrick Roy and teammates have expressed optimism about Aitcheson's condition, with no serious injury expected despite the tough hit. The Islanders are cautiously optimistic as they manage the health of these promising young players heading into the regular season.