(Photo Credit: Jackie Kalafut / Bridgeport Islanders)
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DOB: February 14th, 2004
Height: 6-1
Weight: 196
Shot: Left
League: AHL
Position: LD/RD
Isaiah George was selected in the fourth round of the 2022 NHL Entry Draft by the New York Islanders. This is George’s second season with the Bridgeport Islanders, although he split last season between Bridgeport and New York. So far this season, the Oakville, Ontario native has 2G-13A-15P in 41GP.
George has shown that he can produce offense at a decent clip in prior seasons, but has had very little offensive upside this year, and is primarily known for his defensive play. One thing he does well in the offensive zone is get low shots on net, often creating juicy rebounds for his teammates to clean up around the crease. He does a nice job anticipating plays and making clean, simple passes. When under pressure, he doesn’t take many risks, typically opting to dump the puck in and play it safe. His skating is well above average, but he rarely joins the rush. His shot is average while struggling with accuracy if he isn’t shooting it along the ice, a lot of times hitting the opposing netminder in the chest, while his vision is slightly above average. Overall, he lacks natural offensive instinct, which is acceptable for a player who thrives in his own end.
Defensively, George is one of the smoothest players on the ice. His sound stride and calmness under pressure allow him to make difficult plays look simple and routine ones look effortless. He is trusted in all defensive situations in Bridgeport, and his body positioning and stick work have reached an elite level under the guidance of Rocky Thompson and David Cunniff. He plays a smart, high-motor, disciplined game in his own end, making him one of the most reliable defenders on the Baby Isles. With George on the ice, breakouts become routine, and opposing plays are shut down quickly. Simply put, he plays an NHL-level defensive game most nights. The next step in his development will be maintaining that level of play with greater consistency.
OHL Champion with the London Knights during the 2023-24 season
Has one more year on his Entry Level Contract
Can play on the right side if needed
George projects as a bottom-pairing or seventh defenseman at the NHL level thanks to his strong defensive play and reliability in his own zone. If he becomes more consistent, he could solidify himself as a dependable shutdown option.