Last night, 2025 first overall pick Matthew Schaefer made his NHL debut—and became the youngest defenseman in NHL history to record a point. Schaefer’s father, Todd, was mic’d up during the game, and his heartwarming reaction to his son’s goal has fans raving.
NHL debuts are always special, and this week has seen plenty of young talents getting a chance to shine at the highest level. But last night, all eyes were on Matthew Schaefer, the 2025 first overall draft pick.
Youngest defenseman ever
The Ontario-born defenseman took the ice for his first NHL game with the New York Islanders against the Pittsburgh Penguins—and didn’t even need a full period to make his mark. Just 12 minutes into the game, Schaefer, 18 years and 34 days old, assisted on a Jonathan Drouin goal. This made him the youngest defenseman in NHL history to record a point, surpassing Scott Niedermayer, who was 18 years and 46 days old when he earned his first point in 1991.
READ MORE: Matthew Schaefer absolutely roasted Paul Bissonnette
Dad’s reaction to Matthew Schaefer point
Matthew was mic’d up for the game, but so were his father Todd and brother Johnny, who were seated in the stands with 25 other friends and family members. Their reactions to Schaefer’s first NHL point have captured the hearts of fans.
“I was just excited to hear his name. Yeah, it was good,” Todd can be heard saying while looking up at the jumbotron, clearly moved by his son’s achievement.
Heartwarming moment
Big brother Johnny was equally impressed by Matthew’s poise on the ice.
“Can’t even imagine for an 18-year-old kid—the amount of nerves, and the fact that he came out there and shared the ice with Sidney Crosby. I’m just so happy for him,” Johnny said.
The Islanders fell 3-4 to the Penguins and will face the Washington Capitals on Saturday.
You can watch the heartwarming clip below.
READ MORE: Everything you need to know about Matthew Schaefer
