Islanders Trade: GM on 2025 No. 1 Pick
- The new York Islanders are leaning toward selecting a player in the 2025 NHL Draft after winning the draft lottery.
- Speaking at the NHL Scouting Combine, Darche emphasized that while the team remains open to possibilities, he anticipates the Islanders will make the first selection.
- Among the prospects, Darche has shown particular interest in defenseman Matthew Schaefer, who plays for Erie in the Ontario hockey League.
The New York Islanders are poised to select in the 2025 NHL Draft, wiht GM Mathieu Darche signaling a strong intent to retain the coveted top pick. Securing the primary_keyword, Darche is focused on adding a potential star to the roster, despite having only the tenth-best odds in the lottery. Defenseman Matthew Schaefer is emerging as a top prospect.News Directory 3 has the inside scoop on this exciting prospect. The secondary_keyword,NHL draft lottery,has the team evaluating talent. With a focus on elite skills and leadership, the Isles are making moves. Discover what’s next for the Islanders’ draft strategy.
Islanders GM Eyes Matthew Schaefer as Potential Top NHL Draft Pick
Updated June 04, 2025
The new York Islanders are leaning toward selecting a player in the 2025 NHL Draft after winning the draft lottery. General Manager Mathieu Darche indicated he’s unlikely to trade away the valuable first overall pick, focusing instead on adding a top prospect to the team’s roster. The Islanders had only the tenth-best odds to win the lottery.
Speaking at the NHL Scouting Combine, Darche emphasized that while the team remains open to possibilities, he anticipates the Islanders will make the first selection. He noted the presence of several strong players available and expressed confidence in securing a player who can contribute considerably for years. The NHL draft is scheduled for June 27 in Los Angeles.
Among the prospects, Darche has shown particular interest in defenseman Matthew Schaefer, who plays for Erie in the Ontario hockey League. Schaefer is ranked as the top North American skater by NHL Central Scouting. Darche praised Schaefer’s elite defensive skills, leadership, character, and skating ability.
”You’ve got to be open to everything,but I’d be shocked if we’re not the one speaking first,” Darche said. “When [Commissioner] Gary [Bettman] announces the first pick, I’d be shocked if it’s not the New York Islanders.”
Schaefer’s 2025 season was shortened to 17 games due to a fractured clavicle sustained at the World Juniors. However, he has since recovered and is participating in fitness testing. Darche and the Islanders staff recently met with Schaefer, further solidifying their positive impression of his leadership qualities.
”There’s a lot of good players in this draft. Some names are talked more than others,but there’s other vrey good players. Matthew, obviously, is an elite defenseman. Leadership, character is impressive. He can play both sides of the ice. He’s a great skater,” Darche said.
Darche stated that any team hoping to acquire the top NHL draft pick would have to make an overwhelming offer. He reiterated his expectation that the Islanders will make the selection themselves, adding a special player to their ranks. The team is using the scouting combine to evaluate prospects and consult with their scouting staff to make an informed decision about the NHL draft lottery.
What’s next
The Islanders will continue evaluating prospects, including Matthew Schaefer, leading up to the NHL Draft on june 27. They aim to select a player who can make a significant impact on the team’s future.