Draft pick Matthew Schaefer pens initial agreement for rookie year
The World Junior Hockey Championship is an international ice hockey tournament for junior-aged players, and it serves as a platform for players to represent their respective countries. This year, one such player could be Matthew Schaefer, the first overall pick by the New York Islanders in the NHL draft.
Matthew Schaefer, who turns 18 next month, participated in the World Junior Hockey Championship games last season, marking his return to competitive ice hockey after a while. Despite a clavicle fracture, Schaefer managed a notable performance, scoring seven goals in 17 games and achieving a plus-21 differential.
Schaefer has expressed the significance of these games for his recovery and game experience, stating, "It's an incredible feeling... I want to play in the NHL this season." This sentiment was echoed at Citi Field, where Schaefer took part in the ceremonial face-off before the Mets' home game against the Cleveland Guardians on the day his contract was announced.
The New York Islanders have now officially signed Schaefer to a three-year deal. However, his participation in the NHL this season is not guaranteed, as the Islanders could decide to send him back to the Erie Otters in the Ontario Hockey League for further development.
The eligibility for the NHL Entry Draft requires players to be 18 by September 15 of the draft year and not older than 20 by December 31 of that same year, with some allowance for older players from outside North America. Once drafted, NHL teams retain exclusive negotiation rights with players for several years depending on when the player was drafted and their league of origin.
In the case of Schaefer, whether he plays in the NHL in his first year depends on his contract status, readiness assessed by the Islanders, and the team's strategy. Generally, young defensemen like Schaefer often spend initial development time in junior leagues or minors but can be called up early if they demonstrate NHL readiness and the team has a roster spot.
In summary, the World Junior Hockey Championship games provided Matthew Schaefer with valuable reps for his NHL career, and his performance last season was noteworthy despite his injury. With his recent signing by the New York Islanders, Schaefer is one step closer to realizing his dream of playing in the NHL. However, his immediate NHL play will depend on his development and contract terms with the team.
Matthew Schaefer's participation in the World Junior Hockey Championship last season was significant for his NHL career, as it provided him with valuable game experience. The young defenseman, who recently signed a three-year deal with the New York Islanders, could make his NHL debut this season, but his readiness and contract status will determine his eligibility.
