The New York Islanders have secured the signing of their number one draft pick, Matthew Schaefer, with 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 at Citi Field: “It feels incredible. Obviously, it’s something I’ve wanted to do my whole life and to do it in your 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 there will be a lot of hard work that will come with that, 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, who suffered a fractured collarbone in last year’s tournament, which ended his season, recently returned to the ice at the Canadian World Junior Summer Showcase. Schaefer commented on the importance of these preparation games:
“I think it was huge for me to participate in those games and get those reps because I obviously haven’t played in quite a while.”
Matthew Schaefer
