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2025 NHL Draft Prospect Early Look: Matthew Schaefer

Matthew Schaefer could be an option if the Montreal Canadiens perform better than they expect.

By Nate Duffett

Erie Otters defenseman Matthew Schaefer controls the puck against the Sarnia Sting at Erie Insurance Arena in Erie on Oct. 21, 2023.
Erie Otters defenseman Matthew Schaefer controls the puck against the Sarnia Sting at Erie Insurance Arena in Erie on Oct. 21, 2023. / GREG WOHLFORD/ERIE TIMES-NEWS / USA
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Montreal Canadiens fans wish the team will contend for a playoff spot this year. However, the early predictions say they are still two years away from being up there with those teams. The Canadiens have a loaded defense core, but after an intriguing forward draft class in 2024, they could look at Matthew Schaefer at next year's draft. If the Canadiens perform better than the past few seasons, they'll put themselves out of the running for the top prospects. However, Schaefer wouldn't be a bad consolation prize in the 8-12 range. Fans can watch Matthew Schaefer with the Erie Otters in 2024-25.

Schaefer was the first overall pick for the Erie Otters in the 2023 OHL Draft. He was a hot commodity from the Halton Hurricanes in the OMHA, showing an elite scoring touch for a defenseman.

OHL Central Scouting gave him the following scouting report before the OHL draft:

“A powerful defender that has speed to burn and he uses it in all three zones. He can be a one-man breakout as his foot speed allows him to beat forecheckers and make a good heads-up pass or continue though the neutral zone with the puck as he isn’t afraid to lead the play and create offence.  He uses his outstanding skating ability to defend with the best of them as he closes on players fast and gives them little time and space to make plays. He has a great understanding of the game and knows what each situation calls for.”

Schaefer didn't have his best point production in his rookie season, recording 17 points in 56 games. However, sometimes it takes a while for defensemen to settle in. He was the captain for Canada White and the World Under-17s, recording a goal and three assists in eight games. He also played with Canada at the under-18s, with a goal and four assists in seven games.

You'll also likely get to see Schaefer with Team Canada at the Ivan Hlinka tournament, as he was one of 16 OHL players invited to camp.

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