The 2025 NHL Draft is just three days away, and multiple franchises are looking to bolster their roster with new prospects. While some teams have a better chance of securing an all-timer, others will have it much harder. But the same is also true for the draft players.
While some players are still looking for a chance to enter the NHL, going undrafted last, some prospects are so young they would’ve qualified for the 2026 NHL Draft if given some more time. One of these names is defenseman Matthew Schaefer.
He has long been touted as the No. 1 draft pick for this year. Schaefer not only leads in the rankings for the top prospects this year, but he is also the youngest in the top 10 prospects. If selected, then he has the chance to rewrite the record books.
Matthew Schaefer Might Become Top Pick in the 2025 NHL Draft
While Schaefer has yet to play a single game this season due to a clavicle injury he suffered at the World Juniors, he is still locked in to be chosen by the New York Islanders. His performances with the Ontario Hockey League’s Erie Otters have seen him deliver some of the best defensive performances along with great puck play.
If the Islanders are successful at picking him in the first round, then Schaefer will become the youngest draft choice for this draft. Not to mention, Schaefer will also have the chance to become the youngest No. 1 draft pick in history. That mark is currently held by Nathan MacKinnon, who was drafted at the age of 17 years, 302 days.
If drafted on June 27, then Schaefer will do the same at just 17 years, 297 days. But he isn’t hyped up just because of his age. Schaefer has consistently demonstrated his elite skating skills, excelling at closing gaps and performing well in transition plays.
Schaefer has the ability to make an impact on both sides of the ice, with a combination of physical plays at the blue line and getting shots on target near the net. It makes him perfect for an Islanders team that has struggled on offense.
While he has battled multiple adversities in recent times, including the death of his mother, Schaefer has gone through medical tests that affirm he’s 100 percent healthy. Some onlookers doubt his physicality due to his frame, but his multiple international games have proven that he can handle some rough play.
His ability to control the puck will prove to be a plus since the Islanders’ offense needs some leveling up as well. Bo Horvat, who led the Islanders with 57 points, will get some support during power plays and rush plays.
The 2025 NHL Draft will go live on June 27 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles and will be available for streaming on the NHL Network and ESPN+.
