The NY Islanders take another Swiss Army Knife in Jacob Kvasnicka in the 7th round of the NHL Draft

After making nine selections in the 2025 NHL Draft, Jacob Kvasnicka is the last of the group to join the NY Islanders organization.

A member of the USNTDP, Kvasnicka is a 5'11" winger who seems to do everything right while playing within his abilities, similar to Tomas Poletin, selected in the fifth round. But in Kvasnicka's case, he's a more skillful player.

The Isles select Jacob Kvasnicka in the final round of the draft

Registering 53 points (23 G, 30 A) in 93 games, Kvasnicka is committed to the University of Minnesota, but will begin his collegiate career in 2026, playing next season with the Penticton Vees of the WHL, who recently acquired his rights.

"We are excited to add a player with Jacob’s experience at the U.S. National Team Development Program,” said Fred Harbinson, the Vees' president, general manager, and head coach. “Jacob brings offensive talent and an exceptional work ethic — qualities that will help shape the identity we’re building in our first season in the WHL.”

Using his speed and tenacity, Kvasnicka likes to get in on the forecheck, an ability the Islanders certainly seem to be targeting in this year's draft.

While his speed can transition to the NHL, his shooting and puck skills aren't up to NHL standards. He'll need to show some more development this year in Penticton, or he will find himself struggling once he reaches the NCAA ranks.

In today's game, we see smaller players playing fourth-line roles who are terrific skaters and hounds on the puck. That could be the role Kvasnicka takes if he is to reach the Islanders' roster at some point in his career.