Schaefer, who turns 18 next month, is eager to make his NHL debut this season.
“Feels amazing,” Schaefer said at Citi Field. “It’s something I’ve dreamed of my whole life. I know there’s a lot of hard work ahead, but I think I’m ready.”
While the contract is a significant step, it doesn’t guarantee Schaefer a roster spot with the Islanders this season. The team could choose to send him back to the Erie Otters in the Ontario Hockey League for further development.
Another possibility is that he suits up for Canada at the World Junior Championships in December and January – a tournament he was forced to leave last year after suffering a broken collarbone.
Recently, Schaefer returned to action at Canada’s World Junior Summer Showcase, marking his first significant on-ice action since the injury.
“I think that was massive for me to get those games in and those reps because I hadn’t played in quite some time,” he said.
The Islanders are expected to closely evaluate Schaefer during training camp. His maturity, skillset, and determination could make a strong case for a spot on the NHL roster – but his development path remains open, with both junior and international options on the table.
