© Jonathan Kozub/Hockey Canada Images

Despite entering the season as one of the top defenseman prospects for the 2025 NHL Draft, Matthew Schaefer isn’t sweating under the pressure.

He’s certainly ready to start working during his draft season, if anything.

“Pressure doesn’t really matter to me,” Schaefer, who is likely to be among the top ten picks, said in an interview with NHL.com. “I simply ignore it and enjoy the game. The love for the game removes any thoughts about pressure. I’m just excited to return for another season and have a great time playing.”

Everything is subject to change. All you need to do is focus, lace up your work boots, and start working.

The 16-year-old, who stands at 6-foot-1 and weighs 175 pounds, has been chosen as one of the 22 players to represent Canada at the prestigious 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup. This tournament, taking place in Edmonton from August 5th to 10th, will give him the chance to demonstrate his skills among the top under-18 players.

“Playing with him is tough,” said Caleb Desnoyers, a forward eligible for the 2025 draft and Schaefer’s teammate at the 2024 IIHF U18 World Championship, as well as the upcoming Hlinka Gretzky Cup. “He’s an exceptional player. His intelligence and speed are remarkable. His ability to quickly analyze the game is impressive. Plus, he’s a genuinely good individual.”

It’s also a unique experience to play with him. He exhibits great leadership skills. As a defenseman on the ice, he’s the kind you wouldn’t want to compete against. He plays really tough. In my opinion, he’s one of the best.

© Peter Wreschinsky / Erie Otters

Last season, Schaefer scored 17 points, including three goals and 14 assists, in 56 games with the Ontario Hockey League’s Erie team. He was chosen as the No. 1 pick in the 2023 Ontario Hockey League Priority Selection, leading to his naming on the First All-Rookie Team.

The stage has been set for Schaefer as he embarks on a crucial second season at the junior level.

“He said, “It’s always beneficial to overcome the unpredictability of the first year. When I joined the Erie organization, the staff, the players, everyone welcomed me warmly from the very first day. The senior players were especially supportive. They guided me, mentored me, and helped me prepare for everything. I felt at home because they took me under their wing right from the moment I stepped in.””

He will continue his preparation into his second season.

Schaefer had already caught the attention of many after accumulating five points, including one goal and four assists, in seven games during the 2024 IIHF U18 World Championship. His performance contributed to Canada’s gold medal victory in May.

This week, he is given another opportunity to perform on the international stage.

“Dan Marr, the NHL Central Scouting director, described him as a defender who combines size, intelligence, and skills in an NHL-grade package, effectively using these assets in every situation. Marr noted his efficient, assertive playing style, highlighting his potential to be a game-changer despite being one of the youngest players in the 2025 draft class.”

However, Schaefer still thinks there are some areas for expansion.

“Every aspect of your game can always be bettered,” stated Schaefer. “My aspiration is to be recognized as a versatile player. I don’t want to be pigeon-holed as merely an offensive defenseman; instead, I aim to be acknowledged as a shutdown defenseman. Should the situation require me to join the PK, I am ready to block shots. My goal is to step onto the ice with a minute remaining, execute a shutdown, and secure a win for our team. Whatever the coach demands, I am prepared to deliver.”

As Schaefer moves closer to the draft, his combination of skill and eagerness will be admirable qualities. He is set to be one of the top choices for his position in the class, although it’s not a main focus 10 months ahead.

“Of course, it will be exciting when the time comes. However, my focus right now is to work as hard as possible to hopefully secure a high position in the draft,” said Schaefer. “It’s not ideal to prematurely anticipate the end of the season.”

You aim to proceed gradually and exert maximum effort.