All signs seem to be pointing to the Islanders making Matthew Schaefer the first defenseman to go No. 1 overall since the Sabres took Owen Power in 2021.

“Matthew Schaefer is the No. 1 defense prospect in this Draft Class,” Vice President of NHL Central Scouting Dan Marr said. ” He is the complete package playing a dynamic style that generates results and influences the outcome of games. Schaefer easily projects as a future All-Star in the NHL.”