Matthew Schaefer impressed in his NHL debut with Islanders

When the New York Islanders moved way up at the NHL Draft lottery to obtain the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 draft, they knew they would have an opportunity to add a gamebreaking defenseman to their lineup.

There was little question that they would select Matthew Schaefer, but there was some intrigue after they did as to whether or not he would break training camp with the team or continue his development elsewhere.

After a strong showing throughout September, he made the Opening Night roster and made his NHL debut in a 4-3 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins on Thursday night. Despite the result, Schaefer looked great, picking up a primary assist on the team’s first goal of the season.

On Friday’s episode of Daily Faceoff LIVE, host Tyler Yaremchuk and co-host and former NHL goaltender Carter Hutton discussed how Schaefer looked in his first taste of NHL action and what it means for the Islanders moving forward.

Tyler Yaremchuk: He’s the youngest defenseman chosen first overall to play a game in the NHL. He ends up picking up an assist; he plays north of 17 minutes. He looks actually really good, Hutts, and what’s impressive about him is… I love the way he activates. He’s up in the rush in a flash, and his skating is so good. You almost blink and he’s right back in position.

Carter Hutton: This is so impressive. He’s a guy that has great foot speed. He gets that jersey flopping like a Mike Modano when he’s flying up the rink. One thing I think is important with this team, known for their defense, it’s going to be good for him to be a little bit protected… He can pick his spots and be a little bit safer in that sense.

You can watch the full segment and the rest of the episode here…