Islanders Lock-Up Top Goalie Prospect Donald Hickey
On Thursday morning, General Manager Jim Hulton announced that the Islanders have officially signed highly touted goaltending prospect, Donald Hickey.
“We are thrilled to officially have Donald joining the Islanders,” said Hulton. “Donald has the makings to be a good, quality starter in the league. He’s developing his game at a great rate for a young goalie. He had a great year on a good Colts team and is focused on his school as well which we love to see in a prospect,” said Hulton.
Hickey is from Conception Bay South, Newfoundland. The 5-foot-10, 172 lbs netminder will turn 17 years old in June. The Islanders selected Hickey in round four of the 2022 QMJHL Entry Draft.
After experiencing a fantastic rookie season in Ontario’s CCHL with the Cornwall Colts, Hickey was named to the CCHL’s All-Rookie Team. The CCHL is Ontario’s equivalent of the MHL which P.E.I’s Summerside Capitals are a part of. As a 16-year-old, Hickey posted incredible stats in the CCHL for his age. He finished the year with a .925 SV%, two shutouts and a 17-8-0 record in the regular season. His regular season success carried over to the playoffs as Hickey posted a .933 SV% and just a 2.05 GAA across six contests.
Game MVP. 2007 born Donald Hickey went a perfect 5 for 5 in the shootout to help @TheCCHL Yzerman clinch the 2023 Eastern Canada Cup 🏆 pic.twitter.com/nAcSBEhgkC
— Bogart Cup Playoffs (@TheCCHL) November 16, 2023
Islanders head scout, Trevor Birt, is excited for not only the player but the person the team has signed.
“Donald came out of the gates hot and never looked back. He’s athletic, has quick reflexes, is highly competitive and doesn’t give up on a puck. He’s an outstanding kid with a tremendous family and we’re thrilled to have him here in Charlottetown,” said Birt.
You know you are a star when a random kid who’s last name is also Hickey and is also a goalie asks for your stick at the Canada Winter Games…..You give it to him signed!!
One lucky kid!!! #donald_07 pic.twitter.com/JFv1pjVFEp
— TLDawe (@DaweTl) February 23, 2023
Hickey now rounds out a trio of Newfoundland-born players that will dawn the black and harvest gold in the fall. Hickey and Islanders forward Matthew Butler played against each other a few times in minor hockey as the pair grew up just 22 minutes down the road from each other.
“I’m super excited and very grateful to get the deal done and become a part of such a great organization. I can’t wait to get started as an Islander,” said Hickey. “I’m looking forward to getting better and learning every day. I’m excited to showcase my abilities and help the team win.”
Hickey will report to the Islanders 2024/25 training camp beginning in August.
Season tickets for the 2024/25 season are on sale now at the Eastlink Centre Box Office in person or by calling 902-629-6625.