Matthew Schaefer, projected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, is not only attracting attention for his on-ice performance but also for his maturity and leadership off the rink. During the NHL Scouting Combine, he is scheduled for 16 interviews with NHL teams, a testament to his high standing in the draft class.
However, Schaefer placed equal importance on visiting the Western New York Compassion Connection Grief Center, where he shared his experiences of personal loss with grieving children and teens. After losing both his biological and billet mothers within months, Schaefer has found purpose in helping others cope with grief, showing emotional strength and a desire to inspire others through shared healing.
Schaefer has become an advocate for mental resilience in the face of personal tragedy. The 17-year-old defenseman expressed his commitment to honoring the legacy of his late mother by sharing his journey and offering support to young people facing similar challenges.
His openness about grief and coping mechanisms reveals a mature outlook rarely seen at his age. “I just want to be a good person,” he shared, emphasizing his desire to channel pain into positive impact. This level of emotional depth could become a defining aspect of his leadership, both in the locker room and in his broader community involvement.
Schaefer Overcomes Injury, Hagens Embraces Hometown Buzz Ahead of 2025 NHL Draft
Despite suffering a major setback in December 2024—breaking his clavicle during the World Junior Championship—Schaefer remains highly sought-after. He underwent surgery and missed 46 games, including the OHL playoffs. Cleared for contact in May, he is eager to prove himself during the NHL Scouting Combine and continue training with notable mentors like former NHL defenseman Mark Giordano.
Schaefer is focused on building strength and preparing for a professional career, stating his excitement about working out with top-tier trainers and skating alongside NHL players like Adam Pelech. His perseverance following injury only adds to his draft stock.
Matthew Schaefer (NHL)James Hagens, ranked No. 3 among North American skaters, has caught the imagination of New York Islanders fans, especially since the team won the draft lottery. Growing up on Long Island, Hagens has long supported the Islanders, and fan-made bumper stickers saying “Hagens come home” underscore the local excitement around him potentially being drafted by his hometown team.
Despite this, Hagens maintains a grounded outlook, expressing gratitude for any opportunity to play in the NHL, regardless of which team selects him. His performance as a freshman at Boston College—posting 37 points in 37 games—cements his standing as a top prospect.
From Backyard Battles to NHL Dreams: Martone’s Unconventional Training Journey with ‘Jeff’
Right-wing Porter Martone, a projected top-10 pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, has an unusual and memorable training story involving a wooden goalie named “Jeff,” built by his father. This homemade setup in the backyard became a valuable part of his early development, helping him fine-tune his shot placement and accuracy.
At 6-foot-3 and 208 pounds, Martone is ranked No. 6 by NHL Central Scouting and is eager to showcase his skills at the NHL Scouting Combine. His lighthearted personality and strong family support reveal the human side of an athlete preparing for the highest level of competition.
The USA Hockey National Team Development Program (NTDP) is well-represented at the combine with nine U-18 players, including three projected first-rounders: Will Moore, Jack Murtagh, and Cole McKinney. These players posted impressive numbers this season, led by McKinney’s 61 points and Murtagh’s power-play proficiency.
The NTDP continues to be a crucial pipeline for NHL talent, emphasizing rigorous training and high-level competition. Each of these players is also committed to top NCAA programs, which will further hone their skills before turning pro. Their experience and daily competitiveness underscore why so many scouts view NTDP alumni as NHL-ready prospects.
