NEW YORK – The New York Islanders have secured 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 ball by the young defender in the home game of the New York Mets against the Cleveland Guardians.
Schaefer, who will turn 18 next month, expressed his enthusiasm.
“It feels incredible,” Schaefer said at Citi Field. “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 to do, 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.”
The signing of the contract does not guarantee Schaefer’s presence 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. Recently, he returned to the ice at the Canadian World Junior Summer Showcase.
“I think it was crucial for me to participate in those games and get those reps because I obviously hadn’t played in a long time,” Schaefer commented.
