The NY Islanders need to make the smart decision and select Matthew Schaefer with the first overall pick

The NY Islanders are on the clock with the first pick of the 2025 NHL Draft. A decision that could alter the future of the franchise, the organization led by a new general manager yet to be named, will do its due diligence to make the best decision possible.

While weeks of hard work and research will go into draft prep, the Islanders should not overthink the pick and select the best player available, which is Matthew Schaefer.

The Isles need Schaefer

Schaefer is everything the Islanders have been searching for in a defenseman. Looking for a defenseman who can skate with speed? He checks that box. Someone who can walk to the blue line and create shooting lanes for himself? He checks that box. Someone to quarterback the power play? He checks that box.

At 17 years old, Schaefer missed out on qualifying for the 2026 NHL Draft by just 10 days, meaning he is one of the youngest players eligible in 2025.

The 6'2", 185 lbs defenseman from Hamilton, ON, played 17 games for the Erie Otters of the OHL this season, scoring seven times and adding 15 assists. His season came to an abrupt end at the World Junior Championship while representing Canada, crashing into the goal post and breaking his collarbone. From that point on, Canada's play suffered, resulting in an early exit.

Despite Schaefer's lack of games playedthis season, he's seen his name rise in the rankings to the consensus number one prospect.

“A player on the blueline who reminds me a lot of Drew Doughty in the way they control the game,” said Craig Button of TSN. “A player that can make the game change in his team’s advantage."

Due to Schaeffer's age and lack of playing time last season, the smart decision may be to keep him out of the NHL for another season. Without game experience since New Year's, he'll need to to refine his game whether that be back in Erie, or, the NCAA if he and the Islanders decided that was the best route. Maybe at Boston Univerity alongside Cole Eiserman?

From a neutral standpoint, Schaefer seems like the no-brainer choice. But from an Islanders fan perspective, it's difficult to escape the thought of homegrown James Hagens pulling over the blue and orange sweater and returning the Isles to relevance.

While Hagens has the potential to become a teriffic player in this league, Schaefer is the one with superstar potential. While hearts may say Hagens, Schaefer is the only right decision to take with No. 1, as he could be the key cog into and Islanders re-tool.