Schaefer’s Contract

Written By Madison Adams

On August 4th, 2025, Matthew Schaefer signed a 3 year entry level contract with the New York Islanders. Choosing #48 as his jersey number. Schaefer was the top prospect for the 2025 NHL draft and went first overall pick. The 17 year old signed a max-entry level, which is typical with top picks. Due to Canadian Hockey League rules, Schaefer is ineligible to play in the NCAA or AHL. As a result, his entry-level contract will only slide if he plays nine or fewer NHL games; in that case, he would return to the Ontario Hockey League (OHL).

Schaefer Contract Details: 

  • Contact Term: 3 years (2025-26 to  2027-28) 

  • Signing Bonus: $97,500 

  • Base Salary: $877,500 (per season) 

  • Cap Hit: $975,000

  • Performance Bonuses: up to $3.5 million

  • Slide Clause: 9 games or less.

In celebration, Schaefer threw the first pitch at the New York Mets game yesterday evening.

Madison Adams
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