The Islanders sign their number 1 pick, Matthew Schaefer
The New York Islanders have secured the signing of Matthew Schaefer, their number one draft pick, to a three-year entry-level contract. The official announcement was made on Monday, coinciding with Schaefer’s ceremonial first pitch at the New York Mets vs. Cleveland Guardians game. Schaefer, who will turn 18 next month, expressed his enthusiasm.Signing the contract does not automatically guarantee a spot in the NHL for Schaefer 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 Canada’s summer event for the World Junior Championship. “I think it was crucial for me to participate in those games and get those reps because I obviously haven’t played in a long time,” Schaefer added.“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 to be done, 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 with this, but I think I’m ready.”
Matthew Schaefer
