Islander team signs Matthew Schaefer to a three-year novice contract
New York Islanders' Top Draft Pick Matthew Schaefer Signs Three-Year Deal
Matthew Schaefer, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, has signed a three-year entry-level contract with the New York Islanders. The deal, which begins in the 2025-26 season, signals the organization's confidence in Schaefer's ability to compete for an NHL roster spot immediately.
Schaefer, who turns 18 in September, is eager to make his mark on the Islanders. Speaking about his contract signing, he expressed excitement, calling it a "dream come true." However, he is realistic about the work that lies ahead. "There's still work to be done to secure a spot on the team," he stated.
The entry-level contract rules mean that Schaefer could play up to nine games at the NHL level before burning a year of his contract. This could potentially delay the contract's start if he is returned to junior hockey or the American Hockey League (AHL) for further development.
If Schaefer is not deemed ready for the full-time workload of the NHL, he could spend the entire 2025-26 season with the Erie Otters, his former junior team in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). However, many analysts argue that given his draft status and the little left to prove at the junior level, the OHL might not be the best developmental path. The AHL could provide a viable intermediate step to adjust to the pro game.
Schaefer's contract guarantees a base salary around $877,500 plus signing and potential performance bonuses that could total up to $3.5 million. The contract caps at a $975,000 cap hit and lasts three years from 2025-26 onward.
Schaefer recovered from a fractured collarbone suffered in international play in late 2024 and participated fully in the Islanders' development camp in mid-2025, indicating he is physically prepared and eager for NHL competition.
Schaefer has worn jersey No. 48 during development camp and will continue to do so in the NHL. The number, which he expressed interest in, is a significant choice given its association with Islanders' legends like Denis Potvin and Bryan Trottier.
The Islanders' quick signing and assignment of jersey No. 48 suggest they view Schaefer as a legitimate NHL contender out of training camp. Schaefer himself expects to make the team and be a mainstay on the blueline.
In summary, Schaefer's 2025-26 season is expected to be either as an NHL defenseman for the Islanders or, if necessary, a season in junior or the AHL to ensure his development. The organization and Schaefer himself appear focused on him competing for a roster spot immediately, reflecting high expectations given his draft status and contract commitment.
Schaefer's entry-level contract signing makes it possible for him to pursue his NHL career with the New York Islanders, marking a new chapter in his career as he begins his professional hockey journey. His primary goal is to play in the NHL, and he is fully committed to achieving this goal. However, he has yet to secure a spot on the Islanders' roster for the 2025-26 season.
[1] NHL.com [2] TSN [3] ESPN [4] Sportsnet [5] The Athletic
Schaefer's professional hockey journey in the NHL begins with the New York Islanders, as he signed a three-year entry-level contract to compete for an NHL roster spot in the 2025-26 season. To secure a spot on the team, he might need to prove his worth in the AHL before transitioning to the NHL, following the entry-level contract rules.
