The New York Islanders have officially signed their top draft pick, Matthew Schaefer, to a three-year entry-level contract. The announcement came on Monday, coinciding with the young defenseman throwing out the ceremonial first pitch at the New York Mets` home game against the Cleveland Guardians. Schaefer is set to celebrate his 18th birthday next month, just before training camp commences.
Expressing his excitement at Citi Field, Schaefer stated, “It feels amazing. Obviously, it`s something I`ve wanted to do my whole life, and to achieve it in my first year – there`s still a lot of work ahead, but that was my dream, and I really want to play in the NHL this season. I know it will require a lot of hard work, but I believe I`m ready.”
While signing the contract is a significant step, it doesn`t guarantee Schaefer a spot in the NHL this season. The Islanders may opt to send him back to the Erie Otters of the Ontario Hockey League for further development. Another potential opportunity for Schaefer is representing Canada at the upcoming World Junior Championships, scheduled for late December and early January. He previously broke his collarbone at the tournament last year, which cut his season short. Schaefer recently returned to the ice at Canada`s world junior summer showcase.
“I think that was crucial for me to get those games and repetitions in, because I hadn`t played in quite some time,” Schaefer noted.
Signing Details
- Player: Matthew Schaefer
- Signed by: New York Islanders
- Length: 3 years
- Contract Type: Entry-Level Deal
- Salary Cap Hit: N/A
- Total: N/A
- Date: August 4, 2025
