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. This year’s roster features many of the league’s most highly touted prospects, including Schaefer, who was selected first overall in the 2025 NHL Draft, and Gatcomb, who earned a reputation for his hard-nosed play and steady two-way game in the Islanders’ system.