New York Islanders sign top prospect Cole Eiserman to entry-level contract

The New York Islanders bolstered their prospect pipeline on March 18, 2026, by signing forward Cole Eiserman to a three-year entry-level contract. The deal, which begins next season and extends through 2028-29, secures one of the organization’s most NHL-ready young talents.1 Eiserman is set to report to the Bridgeport Sound Tigers in the American Hockey League on a tryout agreement for the remainder of this season, positioning him for a potential audition at Islanders training camp in September.

This move comes hot on the heels of the Islanders signing defenseman Kashawn Aitcheson, a 2025 first-round pick, to his own entry-level deal. At 19 years old, Eiserman brings elite goal-scoring prowess and international pedigree to New York’s development system.

Eiserman’s record-breaking NTDP tenure

Cole Eiserman established himself as a prolific scorer during his time with the U.S. National Team Development Program. He shattered records with 127 goals in 119 games, becoming the all-time leader in that category. His 193 total points rank second only to Jack Hughes, the 2019 No. 1 overall pick and current New Jersey Devils star.

Eiserman’s shot was his calling card, often described as one of the best in his draft class. He honed his offensive instincts against top junior competition, consistently delivering in high-stakes games. This foundation at the NTDP set the stage for his selection as the 20th overall pick by the Islanders in the 2024 NHL Draft.

The Newburyport, Massachusetts, native turned 20 on August 29, 2026, making him eligible for professional play. His NTDP success wasn’t just about volume; it showcased his ability to elevate teammates while dominating net-front battles.

Observers noted his relentless pursuit of the puck and quick release, traits that translated seamlessly to higher levels. Eiserman’s junior career provided a blueprint for the power-forward archetype the Islanders covet.

College dominance at Boston University

After the draft, Eiserman committed to Boston University for two seasons, amassing 64 points in 71 NCAA games. His sophomore year saw him notch 28 points, including 18 goals, in 32 games, ranking second on the team despite BU’s early playoff exit.2

At BU, Eiserman adapted to the college game’s physicality and speed. He thrived on the power play, using his lethal wrist shot to pick corners from the circles. Injuries tested his resilience, but he returned with clutch performances, like scoring twice in a key playoff push.

His freshman campaign laid the groundwork with strong underlying metrics, including high expected goals and shot quality. BU coaches praised his work ethic, often deploying him in all situations.

Eiserman’s 1.07 points-per-game average over two years underscores his consistency. Teammates and rivals alike recognized him as a game-changer, with his presence forcing defensive adjustments.

This college stint refined his all-around game, addressing early critiques on defensive detail while preserving his offensive edge.

International gold medalist

Eiserman’s international resume gleams with gold medals from the under-20 World Juniors, under-18, and under-17 World Championships. These triumphs against global talent affirmed his status as a winner on big stages.

At the 2026 World Juniors, he contributed offensively for Team USA, showcasing the sniping ability that defined his NTDP days.3 His ability to perform under pressure mirrored the poise of past U.S. stars like Hughes and Auston Matthews.

These tournaments honed his international style, emphasizing quick transitions and penalty-killing reliability. Eiserman’s gold-medal pedigree adds intangible leadership to his skill set.

For the Islanders, this experience translates directly to NHL playoffs, where composure matters most.

Contract terms and pro transition

The three-year entry-level contract aligns with standard terms for a player of Eiserman’s age and experience. It carries an NHL cap hit around $950,000, with significant two-way provisions early on.

Eiserman joins Bridgeport immediately on an amateur tryout, allowing evaluation against AHL grinders. Success there could accelerate his NHL timeline, especially with Isles injuries creating opportunities.

The Islanders also inked Aitcheson, signaling aggressive prospect development. Aitcheson, turning 20 in September, heads straight to the AHL next fall.

This dual signing deepens New York’s blue-chip group. For context on the Isles’ youth movement, Matthew Schaefer’s Calder contention highlights the defensive upside pairing well with Eiserman’s offense.

Fitting into the Islanders’ future

Eiserman’s profile—elite shot, physicality, and scoring touch—slots perfectly into Lou Lamoriello’s blueprint. He projects as a middle-six winger capable of 20-25 goals in the NHL.

Comparisons to Hughes underscore his potential, though Eiserman’s edge work and board battles offer more grit. Islanders fans can track his stats at HockeyDB.4

With recent prospect updates showing depth, Eiserman elevates the group’s ceiling.2 Emil Heineman’s breakout exemplifies how acquired forwards can thrive.

Challenges remain: refining defense and adapting to pro speed. Yet his trajectory points upward.

Eiserman’s signing injects excitement into an Islanders organization eyeing contention. If he translates his junior and college dominance, he could debut sooner than expected, bolstering a lineup needing scoring punch. Watch Bridgeport closely—this prospect’s journey to Uniondale has begun.