Matthew Schaefer , the No. 1 pick of the 2025 NHL Draft, signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the New York Islanders on Monday.

The 17-year-old defenseman had 22 points (seven goals, 15 assists) in 17 games with Erie of the Ontario Hockey League last season. His season was cut short after he fractured his collarbone while playing for Canada at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship on Dec. 27.

Schaefer was cleared for contact on May 1 and was a full participant at Islanders development camp in July.

"Yeah, I feel amazing," Schaefer said. "Obviously, it's something I've wanted to do my whole life, and to do it in your first year ... there's still a lot of work, but this was my dream. And I want to play in the NHL this season. I want it really badly and I know there's going to

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