In an unconventional NHL draft held remotely, the New York Islanders selected 17-year-old defenseman Matthew Schaefer from the OHL's Erie Otters as the number one pick. Schaefer, known for his elite puck-moving skills and two-way transition game, demonstrated impressive capabilities on the ice despite a season hampered by injury, scoring seven goals and 22 points in just 17 games. The draft procedure was unique, with executives participating from home, yet first-round selections were still celebrated by fans and their families, marking the start of their professional careers.
An elite puck-mover and brilliant skater with a top-end, two-way transition game, Schaefer has great poise, posture and edges that allow him to not only carry play from end to end.
Despite a draft season limited by injury, Schaefer collected seven goals and 22 points in just 17 games with Erie.
This year's draft lacks the centralized structure that has long been a staple; the 32 teams' various executives are mostly at home.
The players chosen in the first round Friday still will take the stage to cheers from their families and hockey fans before they begin their careers.
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