The New York Islanders used the coveted first-overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft to select defenseman Matthew Schaefer, a player whose high-end skill and mature character have already impressed the hockey world — and veteran blueliner Ryan Pulock.
Pulock first met Schaefer at the end of Islanders Development Camp and came away impressed with more than just the rookie’s talent. “Schaefer’s just a genuine kid, mature beyond his years,” Pulock said in an interview with NewYorkIslanders.com. “Haven’t really seen him on the ice but obviously a tremendous talent.