NHL Debut: Matthew Schaefer (Oct. 9, 2025)

Former Erie Otters defenceman Matthew Schaefer made his NHL debut with the New York Islanders on Thursday night. At just 18 years and 34 days old, he became the youngest blueliner chosen first overall to play in an NHL game. 

Selected first overall in the 2025 NHL Draft, Schaefer spent last season with the Otters, recording 22 points (7G, 15A) and a +21 rating in just 17 games. His campaign was unfortunately cut short due to an injury sustained at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship while representing Team Canada.

In 2023–24, Schaefer posted 17 points (3G, 14A) over 56 games with Erie, adding three assists in six playoff appearances.

On the international stage, Schaefer captained Team Canada to a gold medal at the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, where he tallied six points (2G, 4A) in five games. He also helped Canada capture gold at the 2024 IIHF World Under-18 Championship, contributing five points (1G, 4A) across seven games.