Matthew Schaefer, a 17-year-old defenseman, was selected first overall by the New York Islanders in the 2025 NHL draft. The pick is especially poignant as Schaefer lost his mother to breast cancer last year. The Islanders' jersey presented to him included a breast cancer ribbon and his mother's initials, a touching tribute. Schaefer, a Canadian gold medalist, also acknowledged the loss of other loved ones. He's the fifth defenseman to be selected first overall and the Islanders' first first-overall pick since 2009.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.