Jaxon Cover made history as the first native of the Cayman Islands to be selected in the NHL Draft, hearing his name called 32nd overall by the Ottawa Senators.
Early Life and Family Influence
Cover's path to the draft began after he relocated to St. Andrew’s College in Aurora, Ontario, where he first laced up ice skates in 2021. Though he had previously honed his skills on the roller rinks of the King’s Sports Centre, it was the transition to ice that revealed a natural offensive flair.
His father, Patrick Cover, served as his primary role model, instilling a relentless work ethic and helping launch a youth inline hockey program in the Cayman Islands that nurtured many youngsters back home.
OHL Breakthrough and Draft Momentum
The London Knights recognized Cover's potential, drafting him in the fourth round of the 2024 OHL Priority Selection. In the 2025–26 season he posted 20 goals and 52 points, placing sixth in goals and fourth in points among all OHL rookies, statistics that caught the eye of NHL scouts.
The Senators, impressed by his blend of size, skill and hockey sense, selected him in the draft and have expressed optimism that he could develop into a potent offensive contributor at the professional level.
Future Path and Outlook
Cover has committed to joining the NCAA’s Penn State Nittany Lions for the upcoming collegiate season, a move that will allow him to further refine his game before turning professional. With a unique background and a supportive family legacy, he represents a compelling story for the sport and a promising prospect for the Ottawa organization.