Islanders Make Key Roster Call on No. 1 Pick Matthew Schaefer Ahead of Season Opener
The New York Islanders have made a bold decision ahead of the 2025–26 NHL season, choosing to keep top overall draft pick Matthew Schaefer on their opening night roster. The 18-year-old defenseman, selected first overall in the 2025 NHL Draft, will go straight to the NHL without any time in the minors.
Schaefer will make his professional debut on Thursday, October 9, when the Islanders take on the Pittsburgh Penguins at PPG Paints Arena. Despite his youth and limited experience, Schaefer impressed throughout training camp and earned his place on the team, showcasing poise, elite skating, and puck-moving ability.
The journey hasn’t been easy for Schaefer. He returned from a broken clavicle suffered during the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship, and he has also endured the emotional toll of losing both his mother and billet mom over the past two years. His resilience and maturity were key factors in the Islanders’ decision to keep him on the NHL roster.
GM Darche: “He’s Ready for This”
General Manager Mathieu Darche expressed full confidence in the teenager’s readiness:
“For an 18-year-old to step into the NHL, especially in a market like New York, his maturity has really stood out,” Darche told NHL.com. “That’s what gives me confidence — he’s ready. He’s earned his place in the lineup for Thursday against Pittsburgh.”
Throughout the preseason, Schaefer was paired with veteran Scott Mayfield, giving him a chance to learn the Islanders’ system and adjust his skillset to the pro level.
Schaefer’s Road to the NHL
Last season, Schaefer appeared in just 17 games for the OHL’s Erie Otters due to injury, but he still managed 22 points (7 goals, 15 assists). In the 2023–24 season, he posted 17 points in 56 games. His rapid development and strong performance in limited action helped solidify his No. 1 draft status.
With this move, Schaefer becomes just the fifth defenseman since 2000 to be drafted first overall, joining the likes of Owen Power, Rasmus Dahlin, Aaron Ekblad, and Erik Johnson.
“The way he plays will determine what comes next,” Darche said. “He’s absolutely earned his spot, and on October 9, he’ll be on the ice. We’ll take it one step at a time. He’s been extremely impressive.”
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