The New York Islanders made a franchise-defining move by selecting Matthew Schaefer with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 Upper Deck NHL Draft on Friday. The 17-year-old defenseman, who played last season with Erie of the Ontario Hockey League, became the first blueliner in over a decade to go first overall—and the emotion of the moment was palpable.
Shortly after donning the Islanders sweater, Schaefer received a surprise call from team captain Anders Lee. The heartfelt conversation symbolized the beginning of a new era for the Islanders and marked a moment of pride and reflection for Schaefer, who had dedicated the night to his late mother, Jennifer.
“A lot of tears got to me today for sure,“ Schaefer told Lee. “I hear a lot of great things about the team. I know you’ve got a lot of guys under your wing, and obviously it starts with you. Can’t wait to meet you hopefully soon.“
A touching tribute and a memorable night
Schaefer honored his late mother, who passed away in February 2024 from breast cancer, by arriving at L.A. Live’s Peacock Theater in a suit jacket lined with photographs of her. The Islanders added to the tribute by stitching a cancer ribbon and the initials “JS” on the back of his new jersey.
The gesture, combined with the emotional weight of being selected first overall, made for a powerful night. “It’s going to be great, man,” Lee told him. “Soak it all in. It’s well-deserved. You’ve earned it. You worked for this, and you deserve everything that’s coming. … Welcome to the Island.”
Looking ahead to a promising career
Known for his two-way play, leadership qualities, and poise beyond his years, Schaefer is expected to become a cornerstone of the Islanders’ defense. With the backing of veterans like Lee and a franchise eager to return to playoff relevance, expectations will be high—but so is the belief in the young prospect.
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As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on how quickly Schaefer adapts to the professional game and whether he can make an immediate impact in New York. One thing is certain: his NHL journey began with a moment he—and Islanders fans—won’t soon forget.