Get to Know Burke Hood

Goaltender Burke Hood was surrounded by his parents and girlfriend when he was selected by the New York Islanders in the sixth round of the 2025 NHL Draft (170^th overall).

“My mom broke into tears pretty quick,” Hood said. “My dad doesn’t show too much emotion, but I think he’s very proud of me and what I’ve become.”

Hood’s father played hockey until he was about 25 years old, getting some games in the WHL and spending a lot of time in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League (MJHL). Hood followed in his father’s footsteps.

“My dad was a goalie, so I modeled that after him,” Hood said. “He was the main reason I became a goalie.”

Hood also made his family proud by representing their country at this past year’s U-18 World Championships. He was a backup goalie for Team Canada and won gold.

“It was my first Team Canada experience, it would have been nice to play but it was great to get the invite,” Hood said. “I had a great experience, gold medal, got to know a whole group of guys.”

Hood fared well in his first season in the WHL, sporting a 19-13-6 record, along with a .910 SV% and a .863 GAA with the Vancouver Giants. There was an initial adjustment period for the 18-year-old netminder, but he found his confidence and consistency mid-season. From Dec. 1 through the end of the season, he posted a .923 SV% and went 16-9-3 in 30 appearances.

“It was good first year, a little up and down,” Hood said. “In my second half, I really found myself playing hockey that I knew I could play at that level. I ended up having a really good second half.”

His favorite goalie growing up was Carey Price, although he wasn’t a Montreal Canadiens fan, he loved his game. Hood grew up a fan of the Winnipeg Jets, closely following Connor Hellebuyck. Hood, who brings size and strength, stands at 6’4 and 203 lbs., describing his game as athletic and composed.

“When I need to, I can make that acrobatic save,” Hood said. “I like to stay calm, get there on my feet, try not to do too much. Even in a scrambling play I try not to panic, just stay composed.”

As far as development camp goes, Hood is looking to picking up as many tips as possible before he continues his career in the WHL in the fall. Hood didn't know anyone prior to getting drafted besides fellow goalie and Manitoba native, Reid Dyck. The two connected after Hood got drafted but he's excited to enjoy the week, acclimating to Long Island and the rest of the squad.

“I want to get used to the guys around here, as well as the caliber or the pace and shots. I think the main goal is to have fun and prove myself,” Hood said. “It seems like a really good group, the facility’s nice. It’s my first time being in New York, so it’s a really good experience for me. I’m looking forward to exploring it a little more.”