Islanders Secure Their Promise: Matthew Schaefer Signs Contract
The New York Islanders have finalized the signing of their number one draft pick, Matthew Schaefer, to a three-year entry-level contract. The official announcement was made on Monday, coinciding with the ceremonial launch of the first Schaefer ball in the New York Mets game against the Cleveland Guardians. Schaefer, who will turn 18 next month, just before the start of training camp, expressed his enthusiasm.The signing of the contract does not guarantee that Schaefer will play in the NHL this season. The Islanders could choose to send him back to the Erie Otters of the Ontario Hockey League. Furthermore, there is a possibility that he will represent Canada in the junior world championship at the end of December and the beginning of January. Schaefer suffered a broken collarbone in last year’s tournament, which ended his season, and recently returned to the ice at the Canadian World Junior Summer Showcase. Schaefer added that playing in those games and getting those reps was crucial, given the time he had spent away from the game.“It feels incredible,” Schaefer commented at Citi Field. “Obviously, it’s something I’ve wanted to do my whole life and achieve it in my first year… There’s still a lot of work ahead, but that was my dream and I want to play in the NHL this season. I wanted it a lot. I know a lot of hard work will come, but I think I’m ready.”
Matthew Schaefer
