Matthew Schaefer has signed a three-year entry-level contract with the New York Islanders after being chosen as the first overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. The 17-year-old defenseman aims to secure a spot on the opening-night roster. Schaefer previously broke his clavicle but recorded impressive stats before his injury, with 22 points in 17 games for the Erie Otters. There is a possibility he may spend the full 2025-26 season in junior hockey if deemed unprepared for the NHL.
Matthew Schaefer, the No. 1 overall pick, has signed a three-year entry-level contract with the New York Islanders, signaling his ambition to join the NHL immediately.
Despite breaking his clavicle while playing for the Canadian national junior team, Schaefer was the consensus top prospect and recorded 22 points in 17 games with Erie.
Schaefer expressed his determination to make the Islanders' opening-night roster by preparing his body and working hard throughout the summer with NHL players.
There is the possibility that Schaefer may spend the entire 2025-26 season with the Erie Otters if he is not prepared for the NHL workload.
Collection
[
|
...
]