Emotional moment for New York Islanders #1 pick

New York Islanders #1 overall pick Matthew Schaefer dealt with a roller coaster of emotions as his name was called by NHL commissioner Gary Bettman.

Schaeffer, who recently endured the tragic loss of his mother, was in tears after hearing his name called. The emotional moment culminated with the 18-year-old addressing the Isles’ war room via video conference.

Family and friends were also in tears as Matthew Scheafer donned the #25 New York Islanders’ jersey.

Here’s a look at Matthew Schaefer’s emotional moment:

After his initial reaction, Schaefer pledged to work hard for his new team. Check out what Schaefer had to say when he addressed the Islanders’ brass:

The comments showed impressive maturity for such a young man. Now, Schaefer can put behind the uncertainty about hearing his name called.

The attention now turns to Schaefer’s preparation as he gets set to become the New York Islanders’ top prospect.

Matthew Schaefer makes late mother proud with first-overall selection

Amid the joy that came with being the first-overall selection, Matthew Schaefer made sure to dedicate the best moment of his life to his late mother, Jennifer.

While she wasn’t physically in attendance, she was surely in attendance in spirit. Matthew Schaefer, with his big brother and father in attendance, gracefully remembered the irreplaceable place Jennifer held for the family.

Schaefer made it known that his mother had the most important place in Friday night’s NHL Draft by having pictures sewn into his suit.

Ultimately, there’s no better way for Matthew Schaefer to honor his mother’s memory than to be the best player he could be.

Islanders’ fans can only imagine what Schaefer brings to the ice as he looks to make his family proud. The future looks promising for the New York Islanders and Matthew Schaefer as it seems the best is yet to come.