NY Islanders top pick Matthew Schaefer ready to put in work after NHL Draft whirlwind

It’s been a whirlwind few days for Mathew Schaefer, but the New York Islanders' top overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft is already shifting his focus to the next chapter: putting in the work.

Since being selected first overall on Friday, the 17-year-old defenseman has flown on a private jet with fellow picks Kashawn Aitcheson and Victor Eklund, appeared on Good Morning America, and received congratulatory messages from names like Barzal, Horvat, Anders Lee, Wayne Gretzky, and Connor McDavid. Not bad for a weekend.

But on Monday, at Islanders Development Camp, Schaefer was all about getting back on the ice and getting back to business. Schaefer stood out not just for his skating and poise but also his eagerness to learn. He was seen chatting intently with Johnny Boychuk and Dennis Seidenberg, soaking up advice from two Cup-winning NHL veterans. “I told them, my ears are wide open,” Schaefer said. “Every day I want to progress.”

Off the ice, he’s already becoming a fan favorite -signing autographs and asking locals for food tips. The early takeaway? “Bacon, egg and cheese.” Long Island, he’s learning fast. He'll be attending the Mets-Brewers game on Tuesday night at Citi Field and hopes to see some sights around Long Island while he keeps his sights on making the team for opening night.

Schaefer wore No. 71 during the skate, but plans to ask for No. 48 if the team will allow him to have it (We're sure they will). Matthew Maggio wore the number during Monday's drills. Development Camp will continue through the week, and while the cameras may be off, Schaefer’s mindset is locked in. “The draft’s good and fun,” he said, “but now it’s time to work.”

The Islanders got themselves a good one in every conceivable way.