In a moment charged with emotion and promise, the New York Islanders officially selected defenseman Matthew Schaefer as the first overall pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft on June 27, 2025, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. The 17-year-old Canadian, hailing from Stoney Creek, Ontario, has instantly become the most exciting prospect the Islanders have seen since the days of John Tavares in 2009, and arguably the best defensive talent since legends like Denis Potvin and Bryan Berard.
Schaefer’s journey to this pinnacle has been marked not only by his remarkable skill on the ice but also by profound personal adversity. His mother, Jennifer, passed away from breast cancer in February 2024, just months after the tragic suicide of his billet mother, Emily Matson. These losses deeply affected Schaefer, who fought through illness and injury, including a broken collarbone sustained at the 2025 World Junior Championships, limiting him to only 17 games in the 2024-2025 season with the Erie Otters of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). Despite these setbacks, he recorded seven goals and 15 assists, showcasing his undeniable talent.
When Schaefer’s name was announced by NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, the moment became unforgettable. As he donned the Islanders jersey, specially adorned with a pink breast cancer awareness ribbon and his late mother’s initials “J.S.”, tears welled up and fell. He kissed the patch, pointed to the sky, and expressed, “I miss her a lot. I wish she could have been here today.” The Islanders’ gesture of including the ribbon and initials was a powerful tribute, underscoring the high regard and respect the franchise holds for Schaefer both as a player and a person.
New Islanders General Manager Mathieu Darche, who made this the first selection of his tenure after replacing Lou Lamoriello, praised Schaefer’s extraordinary qualities. “First and foremost, we drafted him because he’s an unbelievable hockey player,” Darche said. “Obviously, the human being is exceptional. A 17-year-old to have that resilience, maturity with everything that he’s gone through is beyond impressive, honestly. I haven’t met many 17-year-old kids that act like him.” Darche’s confidence in Schaefer’s abilities and character was echoed by scouting experts and analysts following the draft.
EliteProspects highlighted Schaefer’s dynamic style: “Schaefer controls games from the back end, making the play flow through him. An elite puck-rusher, he takes off from behind his net, using it as a shield against the forecheck, and traverses the defensive zone with a few long strides. He spots teammates in every direction, making both one-touch plays and elaborate, deceptive feeds.” His skating ability and two-way game have drawn comparisons to NHL star Miro Heiskanen, marking him as a potential franchise cornerstone capable of excelling on both the power play and penalty kill.
Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 185 pounds, Schaefer is noted for his poise, posture, and high-level competitiveness. He is known to close on checks with speed and athleticism, use his size effectively to make stops, and consistently give his best effort every shift. While he will need to add muscle to compete at the NHL level, his work ethic and determination suggest he is well on his way to becoming a star defenseman in the league.
The Islanders’ decision to draft Schaefer was widely anticipated, as he had been the consensus top prospect for weeks leading up to the draft. The franchise also secured two additional first-round picks at Nos. 16 and 17 through a trade with the Montreal Canadiens, which involved sending defenseman Noah Dobson to Montreal. These moves signal a commitment to rebuilding and strengthening their roster with young talent.
Schaefer’s ambition is clear: he aims to make the Islanders’ opening night roster for the 2025-2026 NHL season. Despite missing most of last season, he confirmed he is fully cleared from his collarbone injury and ready to participate in the Islanders’ development camp starting June 30, 2025. “I want to battle to make the roster and the work starts now so I can make that opening-day roster,” Schaefer said. “It’s such an honor to be an Islander.”
His path to immediate NHL action is not guaranteed, given the need for physical development and team dynamics, including the recent trade of Dobson opening a spot on the blue line. Schaefer might have to adapt by playing his off-side or compete fiercely during training camp to secure a role. However, his skill set and maturity give him a legitimate chance to break into the lineup sooner rather than later.
The broader context of this draft was unique, with the NHL conducting a decentralized draft event due to evolving league protocols. While fans and prospects gathered in Los Angeles, many general managers and team executives participated remotely from their home cities. Despite this, the excitement and significance of Schaefer’s selection resonated powerfully across the hockey world.
Beyond Schaefer, the 2025 NHL Draft saw other notable selections, including high-scoring center Michael Misa going second to the San Jose Sharks and Swedish forward Anton Frondell taken third by the Chicago Blackhawks. The Islanders also added Swedish forward Victor Eklund and defenseman Kashawn Aitcheson with their later first-round picks, signaling a focus on building a well-rounded, talented core.
Matthew Schaefer’s story is one of resilience, talent, and emotional strength. Overcoming personal tragedy while rising to the pinnacle of his sport, he embodies the qualities of a future leader and star. The Islanders’ faith in him as a cornerstone player and potential future captain reflects not only his hockey prowess but also his character and maturity beyond his years.
As the Islanders embark on a new chapter under GM Mathieu Darche, the selection of Schaefer marks a hopeful turning point. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Schaefer takes to the ice at development camp and beyond, eager to see if this gifted young defenseman can fulfill the immense promise he carries into the NHL.
