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Despite heading into the season as one of the leading defenseman prospects for the 2025 NHL Draft, Matthew Schaefer is not feeling the pressure.

At the very least, he’s prepared to start working during his draft season.

Schaefer, a prospective top 10 pick, told NHL.com, “Pressure or anything like that isn’t really on my mind. I just focus on enjoying the game. The love I have for the game keeps me from dwelling on that. I’m just eager to return for another season and continue having fun.”

Everything has the potential to change. All you need to do is stay focused, wear your work boots, and start working.

The 16-year-old, who stands at 6-foot-1 and weighs 175 pounds, has been selected among the 22 players to represent Canada at the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup. This tournament features top under-18 players and provides him a chance to showcase his skills. The event will take place in Edmonton from August 5th to 10th.

“His game is tough,” stated Caleb Desnoyers, a forward who is also eligible for the 2025 draft and played alongside Schaefer in the 2024 IIHF U18 World Championship and the forthcoming Hlinka Gretzky Cup. “He’s an exceptional player. He’s incredibly intelligent and quick. He comprehends the game at a rapid pace. He’s also a really good individual.”

Playing with him is a unique experience. He exhibits excellent leadership qualities. On the ice, he’s the kind of defenseman that opposing players dread. He’s incredibly tough. To me, he ranks among the best.

Last season, Schaefer scored 17 points in 56 games with the Ontario Hockey League’s Erie team, contributing three goals and 14 assists. Following his performance, he was honored with a place on the First All-Rookie Team. This came after he was chosen as the No. 1 pick in the 2023 Ontario Hockey League Priority Selection.

The stage has been set for Schaefer as he embarks on a crucial second season at the junior level.

“He expressed, “Getting through the first year is always beneficial as it’s unpredictable what you might encounter. When I joined Erie, the organization, staff, and players warmly welcomed me from the very first day. The senior players were particularly helpful. They embraced me, guided me, and prepared me for everything.”

He will continue his preparation in his second season.

Schaefer had already attracted significant attention after scoring five points (one goal, four assists) in seven games during the 2024 IIHF U18 World Championship. His performance played a crucial role in Canada’s gold medal win in May.

This week, he gets another opportunity to perform on the international stage.

NHL Central Scouting Director Dan Marr lauded him as a defender who boasts an NHL-level combination of size, intelligence, and skills. Marr added that he uses his abilities effectively in every scenario, offers a proficient and assertive gameplay, and has the potential to be a game-changer despite being one of the youngest players in the 2025 draft class.

However, Schaefer still thinks there are some areas for growth.

Schaefer stated, “You can always enhance every aspect of your game. I aspire to be recognized as a versatile player, not merely as an offensive defenseman. I also wish to be acknowledged as a shutdown defenseman. If required, I am prepared to participate in the PK and block shots. I am willing to enter the game in the last minute, ensure a shutdown, and secure a win for us. I am ready to do whatever the coach necessitates.”

As Schaefer moves closer to the draft, his skill and eagerness are desirable traits. He is positioned to be one of the best choices for his position in the class, even though it is not the main focus 10 months ahead.

“Of course, it’d be exciting when the time arrives, but my main focus is to put forth my best effort and ideally secure a high position in the draft,” said Schaefer. “It’s important not to let your mind jump ahead to the season’s end too quickly.”

You aim to progress gradually and exert maximum effort.