The NHL draft commenced with the Carolina Hurricanes anxiously awaiting their first-round selection at 29th overall, their first since 2023. The draft saw the New York Islanders picking defenseman Matthew Schaefer first overall, a decision that raised eyebrows due to Schaefer’s rocky season marked by a collarbone injury. Schaefer, who overcame personal tragedies including the loss of his mother, expressed deep gratitude upon being selected. Other notable picks included Michael Misa going second to the Sharks and Anton Frondell to the Blackhawks at three.
When Schaefer pulled on his Islanders sweater for the first time, he kissed a pink ribbon patch on the chest representing breast cancer awareness before breaking into tears.
I appreciate you taking a chance on me. I promise I won't disappoint, but especially I just want to say to my mom and all my family and friends, thanks for everything.
Collection
[
|
...
]