Matthew Schaefer’s life has changed a lot since June 27, the first day of the NHL draft 2025. That was the day the New York Islanders picked him first overall.

As the New York Islanders eagerly anticipate the start of the 2025-26 NHL season, all eyes are on Matthew Schaefer, their No.

Since being drafted by the Islanders, the 6-foot-2, 183-pound left-shooting defenseman has received calls of encouragement ...