Matthew Schaefer Needs To Be On Canadian Olympic Roster

Deservedly so, Matthew Schaefer has commanded attention in the NHL since the draft on June 27th. The pre-draft buzz centered on his elite skating and offensive play from the blue line, and he’s carried that dynamic into the NHL. Amazingly, his off-ice character is just as compelling.

For these reasons, and others, Schaefer needs to be on Team Canada.

Overcoming personal tragedy—the loss of both his biological and billet mom in Erie—Schaefer has shown unusual maturity. Inside the NHL Draft featured a story where he visited a Buffalo children’s grief center and shared his past experiences.

Schaefer’s NHL Season So Far

Schaefer has 23 points in his first 33 NHL games, including nine goals — and he’s doing it as an 18-year-old defenseman. Beyond the raw numbers, he’s helped reignite the offensive creativity of teammates like Bo Horvat and Mathew Barzal, particularly on the power play, where his vision and puck movement stand out.

The New York Islanders may have a truly special blueliner on their hands. Schaefer isn’t just producing offense; he’s also tied for the team lead with a plus-eight rating and is trusted with more than 20 minutes a night. The impact is undeniable.

The question now is whether that impact is enough for Team Canada’s Olympic decision-makers to overlook his inexperience and take him to Milan. That answer won’t come until New Year’s Eve.