LOS ANGELES — When Matthew Schaefer donned the New York Islanders’ blue-and-orange jersey at the NHL draft, his emotions were palpable. Amidst the celebration, Schaefer took a moment to acknowledge the pink ribbon on his left shoulder. The symbol was the Islanders’ heartfelt homage to his mother, Jennifer, who passed away from breast cancer just 16 months prior.
Schaefer, the highly-touted defenseman, was the first overall pick, and he acknowledged his mother with a poignant gesture to the sky. “I appreciate you taking a chance on me,” Schaefer said during a video conference with the Islanders’ management. “I promise I won’t disappoint, but especially I just want to say to my mom and all my family and friends, thanks for everything.”
The Islanders, through a touching initiative, embroidered a pink ribbon on his jersey and included his mother’s initials on the collar, making Schaefer’s debut moment at the NHL draft a personal tribute. “Seeing the ribbon on my jersey was deeply moving,” Schaefer said. “I wish my mom could be here today. She’s with me in spirit… Cancer isn’t easy, and yet she was always the happiest, most giving person.”
At just 17, Schaefer has already endured a great deal. He survived a myriad of personal losses, including the passing of the Otters’ owner and his billet family’s matriarch. Such adversity has only strengthened his resolve and commitment to his sport. The Islanders had anticipated and solidified their faith in Schaefer, a 6-foot-2 Ontario native who boasts exceptional defensive skills and puck-handling agility honed with the Ontario Hockey League’s Erie Otters.
The draft evening began with Schaefer’s selection, a testament to his perseverance. Not far behind, Michael Misa, a high-scoring forward, was picked second by the San Jose Sharks, while Anton Frondell from Sweden went third to the Chicago Blackhawks. This year, the New York Islanders had maneuvered skillfully to gain three of the top 17 picks. Their confidence in Schaefer as a No. 1 pick since 2009 was reaffirmed by his proven record and the support he commanded within the franchise and beyond.
Schaefer’s promising trajectory was disrupted temporarily when he broke his collarbone last season. Despite limited playing opportunities, his potential overwhelmingly propelled him to be the coveted top pick. He’s now part of an elite circle as the fifth defenseman since 2000 to be picked No. 1, sharing the spotlight with past talents like Owen Power.
Adding to their prospects, the Islanders selected Swedish forward Victor Eklund and defenseman Kashawn Aitcheson, part of their strategic growth investing in young talent. Among other prominent draft decisions, the Philadelphia Flyers secured forward Porter Martone, while the Pittsburgh Penguins were active, securing three top-24 picks, highlighting their strategic intent this year.
Michael Misa, a gifted forward renowned for his OHL exploits, was lauded for his scoring prowess and competitive spirit. “His ambition to always challenge and advance will be invaluable,” stated Mike Grier of the Sharks. Meanwhile, Anton Frondell, a versatile Swedish forward, was earmarked by the Blackhawks as a key addition to their roster.
The drafts saw some unconventional picks too — Roger McQueen was picked by the Anaheim Ducks, and two goalies were selected, an occurrence not often seen in recent years. Other notable mentions included James Hagens, drafted by the Boston Bruins, whom many anticipated as a future stalwart at center position.
While the draft lacked a consensus top pick, Schaefer emerged as the distinct choice. This draft also brought a shift in format, leveraging technology with most teams’ executives connecting remotely, a modern twist that garnered mixed reception from viewers but appreciation from many league executives.
The Islanders broke new ground in the draft lottery, claiming the first pick in a pool of exceptional talent, with Schaefer exemplifying a new era of players. His heartfelt journey and triumph against personal hardships add richness to his story as he steps onto the NHL stage.