The New York Islanders may have made Matthew Schaefer the first overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, but that doesn’t guarantee him a full-time spot on this year’s roster.
General Manager Mathieu Darche made it clear in a recent appearance on “The Sheet” with Jeff Marek that the 17-year-old defenseman will need to earn his place through training camp.
Matthew Schaefer Faces Training Camp Test for NHL Spot
Darche, who took over as Islanders GM earlier this summer, praised Schaefer’s maturity and talent but stressed the importance of proving readiness at the NHL level. “He’s got to show us he’s ready,” Darche explained, noting that head coach Patrick Roy will ultimately decide where Schaefer plays.
Darche detailed the process behind drafting Schaefer, saying there were never serious trade offers for the top pick. He had seen Schaefer play before his injury at the World Junior Championship and was convinced by both his skill set and his character after meeting him at the combine.
The Islanders marked his draft day with a personal touch, adding a ribbon and his late mother’s initials to his jersey. Darche said this gesture reflected Schaefer’s openness in sharing his story.
At his contract signing, the defenseman spent extended time with families who had experienced similar losses, showing the same maturity and compassion that have impressed the organization.
While the Islanders see NHL potential, Schaefer’s age and physical development are factors. He turns 18 just days before rookie camp, and Darche acknowledged he could still add muscle to his 6-foot-2 frame.
Development Path Still Flexible for Schaefer
An NCAA route was off the table once Schaefer signed his three-year entry-level contract on August 4, 2025. If he doesn’t secure a full-time role after camp, he could return to the Erie Otters in the OHL, where he excelled in limited games last season, or represent Canada at the World Junior Championship.
The Islanders have the option to give Schaefer up to nine NHL games before deciding whether to keep him for the season or send him back to junior.
Read More: Islanders’ All-Star Center Makes Opinion Clear on Rookie Matthew Schaefer’s First Impression
According to projections, the most likely scenario is that he starts on the Islanders’ third defensive pairing behind Adam Pelech and Alexander Romanov, with opportunities to increase his role as the year progresses.
Schaefer’s strengths lie in his smooth skating, quick defensive reads, and ability to transition the puck with control. Those skills, paired with his mental resilience, suggest he can adapt quickly to professional hockey.
Still, Darche emphasized that there’s no rush. The Islanders can shelter Schaefer from tough matchups until he’s ready, avoiding the pitfalls that sometimes come with pushing young defensemen too soon.
