Matthew Schaefer, the first overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, has signed a three-year entry-level contract with the New York Islanders. The contract includes an $877,500 base salary, a $97,500 signing bonus, and up to $3.5 million in potential performance bonuses. By signing this contract, Schaefer has become ineligible for NCAA play, leaving him with options to play in the NHL, return to the OHL, or move to Europe. He is considered a strong candidate for the NHL roster, with a jersey number confirmed as No. 48.
The New York Islanders signed Matthew Schaefer, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, to a three-year entry-level contract, featuring an $877,500 base salary, a $97,500 signing bonus, and potential performance bonuses totaling $3.5 million.
With the signing of the entry-level deal, Matthew Schaefer is no longer eligible to play in the NCAA, limiting his immediate options to the NHL, a return to the OHL, or a move to Europe.
Schaefer's rapid signing indicates that the Islanders consider him a legitimate contender for an NHL roster position right out of training camp, set to wear No. 48.
Before the Mets game, Schaefer participated in a ceremonial jersey exchange with Mets outfielder Brandon Nimmo, highlighting the personal significance of his debut jersey.
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