The Ottawa Senators made a significant move during the 2026 NHL Draft held in Buffalo by selecting Jaxon Cover with the 32nd pick. This 18-year-old right wing has an inspiring journey that took him from an inline rink in the Cayman Islands to becoming a prominent player in Canadian junior hockey.
Jaxon Cover’s Unique Journey to the NHL
Cover’s early years were spent mastering roller hockey, where he honed his skating and agility on the only rink in the Cayman Islands. This three-quarter-size surface was the backdrop for intramural tournaments, and it showcased his talent so well that he earned a spot on Team Cayman Islands, often competing against older players. At the age of 12, Cover relocated to Canada with his family, transitioning to ice hockey and quickly closing the skill gap with peers who had been immersed in the sport from a young age.
Within six years of his move, Cover transformed from a novice into one of the top 32 prospects in his class. This past season, he played for the London Knights in the Ontario Hockey League, where he excelled on the top line alongside center William Nicholl and right wing Cohen Bidgood. Cover finished the season with an impressive total of 52 points, including 20 goals and 32 assists across 67 games. Under the mentorship of Dale and Mark Hunter, former NHL players known for developing elite talent, Cover has been working diligently to enhance his game beyond just scoring, focusing on becoming a well-rounded player.
Ottawa’s scouting team praised Cover for his remarkable skill set, offensive potential, and competitive spirit, while also acknowledging the positive development environment in London. The Senators believe Cover possesses the capability to make a significant offensive impact as he continues to grow and mature in his game.
Cover’s story is not singular; he is part of a burgeoning wave of talent emerging from nontraditional hockey markets. His former roller hockey teammate, Ryder Cali, who was born in Switzerland and moved to the Cayman Islands as a child, was also drafted, going 48th overall to the Florida Panthers. Together, they are paving the way for future players from the Cayman Islands to pursue their hockey dreams.
From a modest rink in the Caribbean to the prestigious draft stage in Buffalo, Jaxon Cover’s journey highlights the rapid development of dedicated athletes from emerging hockey regions when given the right opportunities and high-caliber coaching. As he prepares for the next chapter of his career at Penn State University starting in the 2027-28 season, all eyes will be on how he further refines his two-way game under the guidance of the Hunters as he aims for the NHL.