Matthew Schaefer’s name has quickly become a fixture in early 2025 NHL Draft conversations. The Erie Otters defenseman missed most of the season—but that didn’t stop him from leaving a lasting impression on scouts and analysts alike.
Despite limited appearances, his game speaks louder than his stats. He blends size, skating and on-ice composure in a way that few players his age can. His presence has become hard to ignore, even for those eyeing flashier forwards.
There’s more to his story than numbers. Injuries and big-stage recognition have shaped a path that feels anything but routine. With the draft drawing closer, he stands as one of the year’s most intriguing blue-line prospects.
How old is Matthew Schaefer?
Born on September 5, 2007, Matthew Schaefer is 17 years old, making him one of the youngest prospects in the 2025 class. His early leap from junior hockey to NHL draft contender underscores both his advanced skill set and maturity beyond his years.
Matthew Schaefer leaves after a media op during the National Hockey League Top Prospects Media Availability at the JW Marriott LA Live on June 26, 2025. (Source: Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
How tall is Matthew Schaefer?
Matthew Schaefer stands at 6-foot-2 and weighs 183 pounds—a frame well-suited to modern NHL defense. Described as a “lanky” yet powerful puck-mover, he combines reach with explosive stride and puck control, making him a strong all-around presence on the ice.
Matthew Schaefer’s family
Matthew Schaefer’s journey to the top of the 2025 NHL Draft class hasn’t been paved solely with goals and assists—it’s been shaped just as much by personal loss and quiet strength. Born and raised in Hamilton, Ontario, he is the younger son of Todd and Jennifer Schaefer.
But tragedy struck when he lost his mother, Jennifer, to cancer. The impact of her death rippled through every part of his life, yet he remained grounded in his dream, crediting her with instilling his resilience and drive.
While playing for the Erie Otters, he suffered another blow—the passing of his billet mom, who had become a second maternal figure during his time away from home, followed shortly after by the death of the Otters’ owner.
Matthew Schaefer’s injury
Despite limited ice time—only 17 games this past season—Matthew Schaefer’s draft stock soared. He missed the start due to mononucleosis, then returned before suffering a broken clavicle during the World Junior Championships. Yet by May 1, he was fully cleared for contact and back at it on the ice—proof of both physical and mental recovery.
Which team did he play for in Junior?
Matthew Schaefer has spent the last two seasons with the Erie Otters in the Ontario Hockey League, a team known for producing NHL talent like Connor McDavid. He was selected first overall in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection Draft, a pick that instantly made him the centerpiece of Erie’s rebuild.
Defenceman Matthew Schaefer #48 of Team CHL during the CHL USA Prospects Challenge at Canada Life Place on November 26, 2024. (Source: Dennis Pajot/Getty Images)
Despite an injury-shortened 2024–25 campaign, he managed to record 22 points in just 17 games, an impressive mark for any defenseman, let alone one in his draft year. His skating, breakout passing, and calm under pressure have drawn comparisons to elite-level NHL blueliners.
Beyond the stats, his time here has cemented his reputation as a high-character prospect. He embraced the smaller-market spotlight and carried himself with a quiet confidence, earning the respect of fans, teammates and NHL scouts alike.
Matthew Schaefer’s career highlights
- First Overall Pick in the 2023 OHL Draft: Schaefer was selected first overall by the Erie Otters, a clear signal of his elite potential. The organization saw in him a cornerstone defenseman to build around, and he quickly embraced the pressure of that role.
- Strong Rookie Season in the OHL (2023–24): In his first full OHL season, Schaefer impressed with his calm puck handling and offensive instincts. He played heavy minutes in all situations and quickly became a key part of Erie’s blue line.
- Named to the OHL First All-Rookie Team: His standout debut earned him a spot among the best first-year players in the league. His combination of size, skating, and poise set him apart in a competitive class of young talent.
- Gold Medal at the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup: Representing Team Canada, Schaefer helped lead his country to gold at the prestigious U18 international tournament. His performance on the big stage proved he could shine against the world’s top peers.
- Silver Medal at the 2024 IIHF U18 World Championship: Just months after Hlinka glory, Schaefer played a key role in Canada’s silver-medal run at the U18 Worlds. He was relied upon in key defensive moments and gained invaluable experience in high-pressure games.
- Over a Point Per Game in Limited 2024–25 Season: Despite missing most of the season due to illness and injury, Schaefer returned to log 22 points in just 17 games—evidence of his high-end offensive upside and ability to make immediate impact.
- Winner of the CHL Top Draft Prospect Award (2025): Given annually to the most outstanding NHL Draft prospect across all three Canadian junior leagues, the award capped off a challenging but remarkable season. Even with limited appearances, he was recognized as the best of the best.
