Ranking NHL prospects is completely objective, as each scout may see something in a player that another doesn't. There's no exact science to it, but one thing is for sure. Nearly everyone sees something special in NY Islanders prospect Matthew Schaefer. Schaefer, the first overall pick by the NY Islanders in the 2025 NHL Draft, has been ranked the top-drafted prospect in the league by Steven Ellis of Daily Faceoff.
The NHLPA, in partnership with Upper Deck, announced that the 15th annual NHLPA Rookie Showcase will be held on Sept. 3 at Medstar Capitals Iceplex, the Washington Capitals' practice facility. Among the invitees are two New York Islanders: No. 1 overall pick Matthew Schaefer and forward Marc Gatcomb. The showcase gives fans, collectors, and media an early glimpse at the NHL's next wave of talent, as Upper Deck gathers photos and video content of rookies for trading cards and memorabilia.