Matthew Schaefer was selected first overall by the New York Islanders and is widely regarded as the top prospect in the draft. He recorded 10 goals and 29 assists for 39 points in two OHL seasons with the Erie Otters and added three goals and eight assists for 11 points in 17 games for Team Canada. Projections range from a steady top-four defenseman to a future franchise cornerstone. The Islanders will evaluate Schaefer in training camp and the preseason before deciding on the opening-night roster. If he makes the team, Schaefer could earn roughly 20 minutes per game and a second-pairing role, increasing his chance to challenge rookie records.
The New York Islanders started their offseason with a bang, drafting Matthew Schaefer with the first overall pick. Many scouts and analysts considered him to be the best prospect in this draft. Over his two seasons with the Erie Otters of the OHL, he's racked up 10 goals and 29 assists for 39 points. He was also impressive during international play, tallying three goals and eight assists for 11 points in 17 games for Team Canada.
The biggest hurdle that Schaefer is currently facing is whether or not he'll make the opening night roster. Although most project him to be on the third pairing with Scott Mayfield, this is not something that has come from the Islanders. In fact, the Islanders are waiting to see how he does in training camp and the preseason before they make any final decisions.
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