As the anticipation builds for the 2025 NHL Draft, the Montreal Canadiens have found themselves at the center of an unexpected controversy. While much of the recent buzz has focused on the prospects who have met with the Canadiens’ front office, an equally intriguing narrative is emerging around those who have not received an invitation.

Among the most surprising omissions is Kashawn Aitcheson, a highly regarded and physically imposing defenseman projected to go in the top 20. Despite swirling rumors and strong fan interest linking Aitcheson to Montreal, the team has chosen not to meet with him during this critical pre-draft period.

This decision has left many fans and analysts questioning the Canadiens’ strategy and wondering if the franchise may be passing up on a potential future star. As speculation mounts and the draft approaches, the mystery surrounding Aitcheson’s absence from Montreal’s shortlist is quickly becoming one of the offseason’s most talked-about storylines.

Photo of Kashawn Aitcheson

Photo credit: Elite Prospects

Last week was an extremely important one for the Montreal Canadiens and the various NHL teams as they prepare for the 2025 Draft.

In recent days, we’ve talked a lot about the prospects who were invited and met with the Canadiens’ front office-players like Carter Bear and Caleb Desnoyers-but it’s also interesting to note those who surprisingly were not invited.

One of those prospects is the tough defenseman Kashawn Aitcheson.

The Montreal Canadiens Decide Not to Invite Kashawn Aitcheson for a Meeting

There had been numerous rumors linking Aitcheson to the Canadiens, but we can likely rule that out now.

Question asked to Kashawn Aitcheson during a media scrum:

“Even though you didn’t meet with Montreal this week, did you run into them during the season?” – Nicolas Cloutier

“I honestly don’t remember.” – Kashawn Aitcheson

The Canadiens will not be meeting with Kashawn Aitcheson this week in Buffalo.

– Nicolas Cloutier/TVA

Aitcheson, projected to be selected between 10th and 20th overall, is a very physical 6-foot-2, 200-pound defenseman.

Some even compare him to a certain Arber Xhekaj!

In short, the Canadiens passed on him last week, and everything suggests he’s farther down their list.

“The Habs will not meet with Kashawn Aitcheson this week in Buffalo.” Nicolas Cloutier

Is this a missed opportunity for the Habs? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain-he’s a player who had been on the radar for many fans and could have quickly become a fan favorite.

Aged 18, Aitcheson recorded 59 points in 64 games this season, along with 88 penalty minutes (he had 126 PIM the season before).

It’s possible that the fact he’s a left-handed defenseman played into the decision, especially if the Canadiens are seriously considering acquiring the big left-shot defenseman Nicolas Hague from the Vegas Golden Knights.

This is definitely a storyline to watch over the coming weeks!