Zachary Aston-Reese Bio
Zachary Aston-Reese is an American professional ice hockey forward currently playing for the Columbus Blue Jackets in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on August 10, 1994, in Staten Island, New York, he has played for several NHL teams including the Pittsburgh Penguins, Anaheim Ducks, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Detroit Red Wings. Known for his tenacity and skill on the ice, Aston-Reese began his NHL career in 2017 and has made significant contributions at both collegiate and professional levels.
Early Life and Background
Zachary Aston-Reese was born in Staten Island, New York, as the third child of William Sr. and Carolyn Aston-Reese. He has three older siblings: a sister named Kristen and two brothers, Todd and William Jr. He attended PS 45 in West Brighton and Morris Intermediate School in Brighton Heights before enrolling at St. Peter’s Prep in Jersey City, where he played hockey during his freshman year. His early exposure to hockey in New York laid the foundation for his future career.
Path to Hockey
Aston-Reese played for the New Jersey Rockets in the Atlantic Junior Hockey League during the 2010–11 season and appeared in the United States Hockey League (USHL) with the Des Moines Buccaneers and Lincoln Stars. He joined the Lincoln Stars full-time for the 2011–12 season, recording five goals and ten assists in 53 games. After two seasons in the USHL, he advanced to collegiate hockey with Northeastern University, where he played four seasons and earned several honors including Hockey East Player of the Year.
Zachary Aston-Reese Career
Early Career (2017–2018)
Aston-Reese signed a two-year, entry-level contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins on March 14, 2017, as an undrafted player. He began with their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, scoring eight points in ten games. He made his NHL debut on February 3, 2018, against the New Jersey Devils and scored his first two NHL goals on February 13 in a win over the Ottawa Senators. His rookie season was marked by a strong playoff debut before a serious injury from a hit resulted in a broken jaw and concussion.
Pittsburgh Penguins Breakthrough (2018–2022)
Aston-Reese started the 2018–19 season in the AHL but was quickly recalled after strong performances. He scored six goals and eleven points in 30 NHL games before suffering a hand injury. The Penguins re-signed him to a two-year contract extension in 2019 and later to a one-year deal in 2021, avoiding salary arbitration. His time with Pittsburgh was characterized by steady development and resilience despite injuries.
Later Career and Team Transitions (2022–Present)
In March 2022, Aston-Reese was traded to the Anaheim Ducks. Later that year, he joined the Toronto Maple Leafs on a one-year contract after a successful tryout, scoring ten goals and 14 points in 77 games and contributing to the team’s first postseason series win since 2004. In 2023, he signed a professional tryout with the Carolina Hurricanes but was released before the season started. Shortly after, he signed a one-year contract with the Detroit Red Wings and split time between the NHL and their AHL affiliate. In 2024, he signed with the Vegas Golden Knights but was claimed off waivers by the Columbus Blue Jackets before playing a game for Vegas.
Playing Style and Strengths
Zachary Aston-Reese is known for his aggressive forechecking, physical play, and ability to contribute offensively. His work ethic and versatility allow him to play various roles on the ice, making him a valuable asset to his teams.
Notable Events and Milestones
A significant moment in Aston-Reese’s career was his first NHL goals scored shortly after his debut. His resilience following a serious injury in the 2018 playoffs demonstrated his determination. Additionally, his contributions to the Toronto Maple Leafs’ first playoff series win in nearly two decades highlight his impact at the professional level.
Zachary Aston-Reese Career Wins
Throughout his NHL career, Zachary Aston-Reese has established himself as a reliable forward with multiple goals and assists across several teams. His collegiate accolades and steady professional development underscore his success in competitive hockey.
Collegiate Highlights
At Northeastern University, Aston-Reese was a standout player, earning Hockey East Player of the Year honors and selection to the Hockey East First All-Star Team. His leadership helped the Huskies win the Hockey East Tournament championship in the 2015–16 season.
Professional Highlights
Aston-Reese scored his first NHL goals with the Pittsburgh Penguins and has since contributed offensively with the Anaheim Ducks, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Detroit Red Wings. His ten goals during the 2022–23 season with Toronto were a career highlight, alongside his role in their playoff success.
Zachary Aston-Reese Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Zachary Aston-Reese comes from a supportive family in Staten Island, New York. He is the third of four siblings and grew up in a household that encouraged his athletic pursuits.
Personal Life
Outside of hockey, Aston-Reese studied graphic design in college and has occasionally contributed to the Pittsburgh Penguins’ front office by designing gameday programs. Details about his marital status or children are not publicly available.
2025 Season Performance
Entering the 2025 season, Zachary Aston-Reese is with the Columbus Blue Jackets after being claimed off waivers. His experience and versatility are expected to provide depth and energy to the Blue Jackets’ forward lines. Maintaining his physical style and offensive contributions will be key as he aims to solidify his role and impact in the NHL moving forward.