NHL.com is providing in-depth roster, prospect and fantasy analysis for each of its 32 teams from Aug. 1-Sept. 1. Today, three important questions facing the New York Islanders.

1. Will Matthew Schaefer play in the NHL this season?

The defenseman and No. 1 pick in the 2025 NHL Draft made it clear his goal is to play for the Islanders when they open their season Oct. 9 at the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Schaefer turns 18 on Sept. 5. He dazzled on the ice and handled the attention with aplomb at development camp in July. Next is NHL competition in the preseason and growing into his 6-foot-2, 183-pound frame.

Logic may dictate a third season with Erie in the Ontario Hockey League, but a top four of Schaefer, Adam Pelech , Ryan Pulock and Alexander Romanov would strengthen a defense corps

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