The close of training camp is invariably a moment of mixed emotions—part celebration, part reckoning, and part instruction—as it represents the point at which a player learns whether he will remain with the NHL club or return elsewhere to continue his development.
For defenseman Kashawn Aitcheson, Wednesday morning brought such a reckoning, as the New York Islanders announced his reassignment to the Barrie Colts of the Ontario Hockey League. Yet if there is consolation, it comes in the form of Islanders head coach Patrick Roy’s commendation. Roy spoke glowingly of Aitcheson’s performance, and those familiar with his unvarnished candor know well that when displeased, he seldom withholds criticism from the public record.