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In a monumental moment at the 2025 NHL Draft, the New York Islanders selected defenseman Matthew Schaefer as the No. 1 overall pick, bringing an emotional and powerful start to the evening. The draft, hosted at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, saw a night of surprises, heartfelt moments, and strategic team moves that will shape the future of NHL franchises.
Islanders Place Their Trust in Schaefer
Schaefer, a 17-year-old blueliner from Hamilton, Ontario, emerged as a standout choice for the Islanders. Despite an injury-shortened season with the Erie Otters in the Ontario Hockey League, his dynamic two-way play, puck-moving precision, and top-tier skating made him a consensus top pick.
At 6-foot-2, Schaefer brings size, skill, and poise. His ability to transition quickly, shut down opposing rushes, and contribute offensively makes him a modern-day defenseman every team covets. He is only the fifth defenseman to go first overall since 2000, and the first since Owen Power in 2021.
A Draft Pick Wrapped in Emotion
Schaefer's moment on stage was more than just career-defining—it was deeply emotional. He kissed a pink ribbon patch on his Islanders jersey, honoring his mother, Jennifer, who passed away from cancer 16 months ago. The patch, along with her initials “J.S.” on the back of his jersey, symbolized her lasting presence.
“Cancer sucks,” Schaefer said with tears in his eyes. “She was always the happiest in our family. I know she's with me.”
The Islanders added the ribbon especially for Schaefer, showcasing the organization’s empathy and class.
More Young Talent Joins the Islanders
Alongside Schaefer, the Islanders made waves with two more top-17 picks. They selected Swedish forward Victor Eklund at No. 16 and defenseman Kashawn Aitcheson at No. 17, bolstering their roster with young, high-potential talent.
Sharks Select Scoring Sensation Michael Misa
At No. 2, the San Jose Sharks drafted Michael Misa, a powerful scoring center and captain of the Saginaw Spirit. Misa racked up 62 goals and 134 points in 65 OHL games last season. With a 6-foot-1 frame, defensive acumen, and offensive explosion, he joins a rebuilding Sharks lineup already featuring top picks Will Smith and Macklin Celebrini.
“He's a nightmare matchup,” said Sharks GM Mike Grier. “He fits perfectly into our system.”
Blackhawks Add Swedish Star Anton Frondell
The Chicago Blackhawks picked Anton Frondell third overall, adding a two-way forward with elite skating and vision. The 6-foot-2 Swede starred for Djurgården and became the eighth Swedish player ever drafted in the top three.
Other Notable Picks and Draft Day Moves
Caleb Desnoyers went fourth to the Utah Mammoth, who traded up 10 spots.
Brady Martin was chosen fifth by Nashville, who later traded up for defenseman Cameron Reid.
The Flyers snagged Porter Martone at No. 6 and later traded up for Jack Nesbitt at No. 12.
The Penguins dominated the first round with three picks, drafting Benjamin Kindel, Bill Zonnon, and William Horcoff, the son of NHL veteran Shawn Horcoff.
Roger McQueen, a 6-foot-5 forward battling a back injury, went 10th to Anaheim.
James Hagens, once the projected top pick, landed at No. 7 with the Boston Bruins, announced via a quirky video featuring Adam Sandler as Happy Gilmore. The Long Island native said, “I love to win, and I’m glad I’m in Boston.”
Two Goalies Highlight First Round
Columbus picked Pyotr Andreyanov, making him the highest-drafted European goalie in four years.
San Jose added Joshua Ravensbergen with the 30th pick, marking the first time since 2021 that two goalies were selected in the opening round.
A New Era in Draft Presentation
This year’s NHL Draft took on a unique format. Most teams’ executives stayed remote, and picks were announced via videoconferencing behind the stage rather than live from the floor. While some fans missed the traditional drama, the new structure allowed for more intimate moments—none more moving than Matthew Schaefer’s tribute to his late mother.
The 2025 NHL Draft was rich with emotion, excitement, and potential. For Matthew Schaefer and the Islanders, the night was unforgettable—and a powerful beginning to a promising future.
