The New York Islanders are facing crucial decisions regarding the development paths of two highly touted prospects: defenseman Matthew Schaefer and forward Calum Ritchie. With a revamped farm system, General Manager Mathieu Darche must decide where these players will gain the most benefit next season.
Matthew Schaefer, the Islanders' first overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, is coming off a season in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) with the Erie Otters. The Stoney Creek, ON native recorded 22 points (seven goals, 15 assists) and a +21 rating in 17 games. His season was cut short due to an injury suffered at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship with Team Canada. Prior to the injury, he won a gold medal and served as team captain of Team Canada at the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, tallying six points (two goals, four assists) in five games. He also won a gold medal with Team Canada at the 2024 IIHF World Under-18 Championship, recording five points (one goal, four assists) in seven games.
There are a few options for Schaefer. He could return to the OHL, move to the NCAA, or play in the AHL. Although Schaefer is talented enough to make the Islanders' NHL roster, Darche has shown a willingness to be patient and play the long game with his prospects. Schaefer is still a teenager, so there's a good argument to keep him in the OHL, especially after missing most of last season with an injury. That said, Darche will challenge him to learn a two-way physical game that will prepare him for tougher competition. If Schaefer returns to the OHL, he could dominate the league to the point that it stunts his development without any real competition that he would have in the pro ranks. Also, if Schaefer stays in the OHL, he can't transfer to the AHL until the season ends, which would limit the organization's options, but would also ensure he uses this season to develop.
Calum Ritchie, selected 27th overall in 2023, also spent last season in the OHL. Ritchie won't return to the OHL. He has two years left on his entry-level contract (ELC), and if the Islanders want to take advantage of that, they'll want him developing in the AHL, where he can get called up to the NHL at any point.
Ultimately, the decisions regarding Schaefer and Ritchie will depend on what Darche and the Islanders' management believe will best serve their long-term development. The Islanders' fanbase is eager to see these young talents make an impact.
