Matthew Schaefer just wrapped his first NHL season. And it was a memorable one. Taken first overall in the 2025 Draft, Matthew became the youngest player in NHL history to win the Calder Memorial Trophy. And the first to win it unanimously since Teemu Selänne, 33 years ago.
But when you catch up with Matthew, award talk doesn't last long. We spent a lot more time talking about breakfast. The teammates with the worst taste. And the Martin family, who made Long Island feel like home. We sat down with him after a hell of a season to let him tell you all about it.
The Work
Behind every highlight, there's the work. From gym days to gamedays. Here's what got Matthew Schaefer through his rookie year.
Most nerve-wracking game?
Probably my debut, just because I didn't know what to expect. The shifts were short at the start, then you settle in, you get used to it, you get your confidence. You find that groove and you keep going. But I'd have to say my first game.
Gameday non-negotiable?
Breakfast. The chefs make a great one. We've got everything: bacon, a little sausage (okay, more sausage, less bacon). A couple of waffles, and they're so good. Some eggs. That wraps it up. Pretty good way to start a day.
If the coaches weren't watching, which drill is everybody skipping?
Bag Skates for sure. We do this one called whammies: down and back, down and back, hard through the middle, and you've got to get it done in under 36 seconds or so. You think it's going to be easy until you're actually doing it. Especially coming out of the off-season and right into camp, you're like, "Man, why do I play hockey?".
Rookie Life
Every rookie pays their dues on the way in. Few take the league by storm like Matthew.
Most embarrassing rookie moment?
At the rookie party, we had to come up with a skit, to like, chirp the guys. One of the first jokes we said, nobody laughed. And we're all up there thinking, "This is gonna be a tough crowd." Eventually we got them laughing a bit more, but it's funny because they just want to make you embarrassed.
Best atmosphere outside of Long Island?
I think it's just Long Island. But if I can't say that, I'll say Montreal. They fit so many people into that building. It's electric in there, getting booed and stuff. It's fun.
Who checks their own highlights the most?
Probably Barzal. Sometimes I'll pull up Matt Martin's highlights when I'm with him. He'll say, "Don't worry, buddy, there's not much there," and then it's just him fighting somebody. He's like, "Oh yeah, I got that guy." I'm thinking, "Settle down, buddy."
Worst dressed teammate?
Calum Ritchie or David Rittich. They just don't have the style.
Worst music taste on the team?
Duclair was on the aux, and I wasn't a big fan of it. I mean I'd still listen to it, but I wasn't a big fan, so I'd probably say Duclair.
One hockey tradition that makes no sense?
We play sewer before every game. You can't let the ball touch the ground, two touches max, and it's basically soccer rules, so no hands. Everybody plays it. It's such a big thing on the team, and I still don't know how it happened.
Most underrated player in the league?
I think Ilya Sorokin might be the best goalie in the world, and I don't think enough people see that. Obviously, I know how good he is. I think he's right up there.
Home Away from Home
Ask Matthew what stuck with him most from his rookie season, and he talks about the people first.
One thing nobody warns you about being a rookie?
You end up being the babysitter if there are a lot of kids on the team. Feels a little above my pay grade, but it's awesome. I'm closer in age to some of my teammates' kids than I am to them. A few made their NHL debut before I was even born. It's an eye-opener for both of us.
Which emoji best describes your rookie year?
I'd say one with a family in it. So many amazing people this rookie season, and we became such a family with the Islanders organization. And I feel like it's home there, at the Martins' house, with all the girls. My sisters I never had. Leaving your family at a young age isn't easy, but I ended up with great people. That's awesome. Oh, Sydney Martin dressing me up. That could be the heart-eyes emoji.
Which family member of yours would be funniest mic'd up for a game?
My dad has no filter. He puts on his best behavior for most of those things. I'd love to see my mom mic'd up, just to see what she'd be like... if you got her laughing, I think her laugh would break the mic. She's got some loud, funny laughs.
One word to describe your rookie year?
It's just so fun. It's a dream come true. You look forward to your first NHL season, especially your first game. You learn so much, meet so many new people, make so many memories. Probably one of the best years.
I thought we said one word.
Oh. "Fun." Or just "memorable."
Matthew Schaefer earned plenty of attention this season. And rightfully so. But spend enough time with him and what stands out is how he talks about the people around him: the family he found on Long Island, the teammates, the routines. We're proud to call him part of the NOBULL family. And prouder still of his approach: head down, humble, and grateful for it all.
Year two is coming up soon. And now that you know Matthew like we do, you know he'll show up the same way he did last year. Ready to work. There for his family (all of them). And unbothered by a single ounce of the hype. That's NOBULL.
Author Bio:
Sean Knight is a freelance senior copywriter from Los Angeles, CA, bringing a sharp, grounded voice to leading e-commerce, tech, and lifestyle brands around the world, with published works in Forbes, Outside, and Range Magazine, among others.
