Islanders sign Cole Eiserman to entry-level deal as prospects shine in playoffs
The New York Islanders have secured young talent Cole Eiserman with a three-year entry-level deal. The 19-year-old forward recently wrapped up a strong season at Boston University before making his professional debut. Meanwhile, several Islanders prospects are now competing in key playoff and tournament matches across North America.
Eiserman signed his contract on Wednesday after a standout sophomore year at Boston University. He scored 28 points in 32 games, netting 18 goals and adding 10 assists. Just days later, he suited up for the Bridgeport Islanders in the AHL, playing back-to-back games on March 21 and 22.
Four other Islanders prospects have advanced to the 2026 NCAA Division One Men's Ice Hockey Championship. Sam Laurila and the University of North Dakota, seeded second, will open against Merrimack University on March 26 at 8:30 p.m. Earlier that day, Quinn Finley's Wisconsin Badgers face Dartmouth College at 4 p.m., while Tomas Machu and Providence University take on Quinnipiac University at 5 p.m. Xavier Veilleux and Cornell University round out the group, challenging the University of Denver on March 27 at 6 p.m. Beyond the NCAA, three more prospects are battling in the Ontario Hockey League playoffs: Kashawn Aitcheson, Luca Romano, and Jesse Nurmi. In the Western Hockey League, Jacob Kvasnicka and the Penticton Vees are locked in a best-of-seven series against the Seattle Thunderbirds. None of the Islanders' NCAA-bound prospects were drafted in 2024, with all typically selected in 2025 or later.
Eiserman's contract marks the start of his professional career after a successful college stint. The Islanders now have multiple prospects competing in high-stakes games over the coming days. Their performances will be closely watched as the organisation evaluates its future talent pool.
