Schaefer ready for Islanders: Young prospects, NCAA rules and more in the NHL

NHL Young Prospects: A Look at the Future of Hockey

The NHLPA rookie showcase event offers a fascinating perspective on the youth of hockey’s new prospects, especially when compared to the history of the sport. The arrival of young talents like David Reinbacher of the Montreal Canadiens, who admires Brock Faber, or Matthew Schaefer, the first overall pick of the New York Islanders, reminds us of the continuous evolution of the game. Schaefer, when talking about his coach Patrick Roy, evokes the legend of a goalie who won four Stanley Cups and three playoff MVP awards. The young Islanders player remembers seeing Roy’s legacy at the Upper Deck offices, the collectibles company that co-hosted the event.

There were things of his everywhere. Seeing all those things. Seeing his goalkeeper protectors. That’s what really caught my attention.

Matthew Schaefer

Schaefer, who signed his entry-level contract in August, was selected by the Islanders after an outstanding performance with the Erie Otters in the OHL. Despite the media attention, the player remains firm in his goal: to earn a place on the team. The age difference in the locker room is not a problem for Schaefer, who has an older brother and does not hesitate to seek advice from his teammates. The young player jokes about the possibility of having to look after his teammates’ children, demonstrating his willingness to integrate into the team.

The Impact of NCAA Eligibility Rules

Karsen Dorwart, a prospect for the Philadelphia Flyers, expresses his envy for the new NCAA eligibility rules. Previously, players had to choose between the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) and the NCAA, but now they can participate in the CHL without losing NCAA eligibility, as long as they receive no more than necessary expenses. This change has generated significant movement in college hockey, such as the decision of Gavin McKenna, one of the top prospects for the 2026 NHL draft, to join Pennsylvania State University (PSU) with a NIL agreement.

Zeev Buium, defenseman for the Minnesota Wild, highlights the positive impact of these new rules on college hockey, allowing the arrival of players from all over the world. Ben Danford, prospect for the Toronto Maple Leafs, believes this change “changed the game”, while Jimmy Snuggerud, forward for the St. Louis Blues, is excited to see how CHL players adapt to the NCAA. Dorwart celebrates this change, although he regrets not having been able to play in his hometown.

The 19-Year-Old Rule in the AHL

Another significant change in player development could be on the way, if the NHL and CHL reach an agreement. The new NHL and NHLPA collective bargaining agreement includes a provision for teams to loan a 19-year-old player to their AHL affiliate without requiring that player to first be returned to their Canadian junior team. The current rule states that a player drafted from the CHL must be at least 20 years old or have played at least four full seasons in the CHL to be eligible for the AHL. This new rule, which would come into effect in the 2026-27 season, could change the landscape of player development. Berkly Catton, prospect of the Seattle Kraken, looks forward to the implementation of this rule. Zayne Parekh, prospect of the Calgary Flames, feels fortunate that the rule was not implemented quickly for this season, as it gives him the opportunity to prove his worth to the NHL team. Parekh, who had an outstanding season in the junior league, sees this situation as an opportunity to consolidate his place on the team. Catton recalls the intensity of the Kraken’s training camp, which motivated him to focus on strength training during the offseason.

Uniforms and Designers in the NHL

The rookie showcase also revealed the new uniform designs for the upcoming season. Jimmy Snuggerud wore the new St. Louis Blues uniform, which brings back the original color combination from 1967. Tij Iginla presented the new Utah Mammoth uniform, with the team’s official colors: Rock Black, Mountain Blue, and Salt White. Iginla, drafted in the sixth position in 2024, was enthusiastic about the team’s new logo. Beckett Sennecke, drafted by the Anaheim Ducks, shares a curious family link: he is the son of Candice Olson, a renowned interior designer and television star. Sennecke jokes about the pressure of having an aesthetically pleasing home and the influence of his parents on his life.