EAST MEADOW, NY -- Matthew Schaefer hit the ice for New York Islanders training camp on Thursday looking to make a good first impression.

"The first day is just to get my feet wet,” said Schaefer, the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. “I have high expectations, and I feel like I can be better in a lot of ways, so I'll be looking to do that going into tomorrow.”

The 18-year-old defenseman certainly made a good first impression amongst the Islanders' veterans.

“He handled himself really well,” said Schaefer’s defense partner Scott Mayfield . “You could tell his speed out there. He's got that first step. Transition-wise, he's right up the ice, seems like a really good player. And he handled himself well.”

Forward Casey Cizikas added: “The work that Schaefer puts in, the dedication

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