Matthew Schaefer was selected first overall by the New York Islanders in the 2025 NHL Draft. He attended the NHLPA Rookie Showcase at MedStar Capitals Iceplex in Arlington, Virginia. He wore glasses fitted with recording technology and said, "I don't wear glasses. I don't hope to wear glasses." He also sported a fake handlebar mustache while laughing with Calgary Flames prospect Zayne Perekh. The glasses evoked comparisons to Al Arbour and the mustache recalled Clark Gillies. Marc Gatcomb represented the Islanders alongside Schaefer and posed for a photo homage to the film Stepbrothers.
Spotted wearing a pair of glasses, the Isles rookie gave off vibes of Al Arbour during the 1960s, who wore glasses while playing. Schaefer was wearing the glasses with recording technology to document the day's events. He'd go to tell Sami Silber, Washington Capitals reporter for The Hockey News, "I don't wear glasses. I don't hope to wear glasses."
Not only did Schaefer sport a similar look to the Islanders' four-time Stanley Cup-winning head coach, but he also donned a fake handlebar mustache, posing a similarity to the Islanders' bruiser, Clark Gillies. Schaefer, along with Calgary Flames prospect Zayne Perekh, who is also considered one of the NHL's top defensive prospects, had a good laugh while rocking the false facial hair, enjoying their time as only a couple of teenagers could do.
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