Introduction
Matthew Schaefer is rapidly emerging as one of the most exciting young defense prospects in ice hockey. At just 17–18 years old, he has already captured widespread attention for his skill, maturity, and resilience. But beyond his on-ice talent, his personal story—marked by tragedy, perseverance, and determination—makes him a compelling figure in the 2025 NHL Draft cycle and beyond.
Young Gun Status: The Making of a Top Prospect
Matthew Schaefer plays as a left-shot defenseman and stands at 6’2″, with a strong, mobile skating style that allows him to drive play from the back end.
He plays in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) for the Erie Otters, where he has impressed scouts with his two-way game, his ability to quarterback a power play, and his poise under pressure.
His performance has made him one of the top-ranked North American skaters on NHL Central Scouting’s list for the 2025 Draft.
Age: A Young Talent with a Bright Future
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Schaefer was 17 years old when he sustained a major injury at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship.
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According to his interviews and scouting reports, he “turns 18 on September 5.”
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Despite his youth, his maturity and skillset are already comparable to much older, more seasoned players.
Parents & Personal Tragedy: The Backbone of His Strength
Matthew Schaefer’s personal life has been marked by loss and grief, but also by inspiration and emotional strength:
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Mother: His mother, Jennifer Schaefer, passed away in February 2024 after a battle with breast cancer.
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Billet Mother: He also lost his billet mother, Emily Matson, in what was ruled a suicide.
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These losses deeply affected him, but Schaefer often speaks about how his mother’s resilience inspired his mindset: “I wish I was as tough as her,” he said.
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His father, Todd Schaefer, along with his older brother Johnny, have been his support system.
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Schaefer channels his experiences into helping others: he works with grief-support initiatives, especially for children who have lost parents.
Injury: Setback and Comeback
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On December 27, 2024, while playing for Team Canada at the World Junior Championship, Schaefer suffered a broken clavicle (collarbone) after crashing into the goal post.
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He underwent surgery on December 30 to repair the injury.
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He was initially expected to miss around three months.
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By May 1, he had been medically cleared for contact again, signaling a strong recovery trajectory.
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Schaefer has expressed a positive outlook: “I’m feeling a lot better … I’d put on the skates tomorrow if I could … I just want to come back at 110 percent.”
Mental Resilience and Character
Schaefer’s journey is about much more than just hockey. His resilience in the face of personal tragedy has won him praise:
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He openly acknowledges that losing loved ones has changed his mindset, giving him a deeper perspective on what really matters.
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Instead of letting grief define him, he uses his platform to connect with and support other children dealing with loss.
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Despite missing key games due to mononucleosis earlier in the season and then his collarbone injury, he remained focused on his long-term goals.
Looking Ahead: Draft & Beyond
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Schaefer is widely projected as a No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.
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His blend of emotional maturity, defensive skill, and power-play acumen makes him one of the most intriguing young defensemen in his class.
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If he continues to recover well and maintain his performance, he has the potential to be a cornerstone player for his future NHL team.
Conclusion
Matthew Schaefer is not just a “young gun” because of his age — he’s one of the most emotionally mature, resilient, and skilled prospects in the game today. His story is marked by loss, but also by an unwavering drive to succeed. With a strong comeback underway from his injury, and the emotional legacy of his parents guiding him, Schaefer is poised to make a significant impact in the NHL.
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