Schaefer chosen in the front row by the Icelanders

Los Angeles – Matthew Schaefer saw his wish to be granted.

Schaefer. Meanwhile, an Ontario Hockey League Otrie defender, was selected at the very first row of the 2025 draft by the New York Islanders at the Live’s Peacock Theater on Friday.

Schaefer (6 feet 2 inches. For example, 186 pounds), became the second ERIE player to be selected at the forefront, and the first since the Center Connor McDavid was drafted by the EDMONTON Oilers in 2015.

“It is such an honor. In addition, especially to be the first choice at the draft of Mathieu Darche (Director General of Islanders),” said Schaefer. However, I am so happy for him that he gets the DG position, and I am honored to be his choice. Furthermore, I heard very good things about this organization, the team and the players. Therefore, I know Bo Horvat schaefer chosen front row icelanders very well. In addition, I heard good things about him too, he is a whole leader. However, They bet on very talented players. In addition, I can’t wait to go there this week and train. In addition, I am a little too enthusiastic. However, »»

The Icelanders obtained the first choice in total by climbing nine rows after winning the recovery lottery on May 5.

“Matthew The hockey player is exceptional,” said Darche. Nevertheless, Human beings are as exceptional as the hockey player. Similarly, We are very happy to have it with us. »»

Schaefer. who will celebrate his 18th birthday on September 5, collected 22 points (seven goals, 15 assists) and maintained a differential of +21 in 17 games this season. He underwent an operation on December 30 to treat a clavicle fracture suffered while he represented Canada at the. 2025 World Junior Championship in Ottawa. He missed the schaefer chosen front row icelanders last 46 games, including the nine games of the Ohl.

The young defender received authorization to collect contacts on May 1. participated in all tests at the NHL hopes assessment session in Buffalo, apart from the pull-ups and the developed developed, earlier this month.

“I think you saw me this season,” said Schaefer. ” I only played 17 games. I have ice skills. I am a good defender in both directions of the rink who can play in the three areas, as well as inferiority and in digital advantage – no matter where the coach needs me. But I want to be a versatile defender who can play anywhere. »»

Schaefer wore a jacket that included photos of her mother on the inner lining, near her heart. It was an emotional moment to Schaefer. who lost his mother Jennifer in February 2024 from breast cancer, two months after the mother schaefer chosen front row icelanders of her pension family, Emily Matson, took her life.

“I just wanted to be selected,” said Schaefer. I dreamed of that all my life. It is rather cool to hear his name being pronounced. As you could see, I could not control tears. I obviously thought of my mother a little more than usual today. I know she would be very proud. Additionally, I would like to see her here in person. Cancer is shit. She is with me in thoughts. I know that she does not suffer. that she is happy, that she smiles and that she is still with me. »»

There was a ribbon with the image of the fight against cancer on the Icelanders sweater that Schaefer. has put on the stage. The young man kissed his sweater where the ribbon was.

“It is a first class organization,” said Schaefer. This attention has a great meaning schaefer chosen front row icelanders for me. Several people can say that this is just a small ribbon, but it has a great meaning for me. My mother is a very important part of my life. I will certainly hang this sweater at home. And this ribbon adds additional meaning to all of this. »»