Welcome To The NHL | Class of 2025

Welcome To The NHL | Class of 2025

I was crying like a baby. Pinch me that Matthew 
Schaefer is on the ice with Sydney Crosby. He wants this so bad. I’m just excited to watch 
him go out and live out his dream. Schaer, let’s go. Matthew Schaer on the 
ice for the New York Islanders. LA streets at this point. Are you nervous? 
Excited? Hungry on this. I’m going to get the bagel for you, too. I don’t want the peanut butter 
on it, though. No, you’re not. Peanut butter. So,   just the bagel playing? Yeah. You just need 
stuff in your belly. It still doesn’t feel real about the draft cuz you know, you’ve been so 
busy. Don’t think about it. Yeah. I don’t think   it’s an effort for you to knock it too high and 
too low. That’s just who you are. If his brother was playing in the OL game and he blew blew a 
wheel on a twoon-one or something like that, I’d have to call Dr. Phil. Whereas Matthew, 
he never gets too high, never gets too low.   That’s why it’s the adversity. Losing losing his 
mom. Like I don’t like big mistakes or anything, but I mean, it’s not the end of the world. A lot 
worse things can happen. How’s it going? Welcome to Drafted. Where’s your head? It hasn’t really 
hit yet. I I don’t really know where I’m going to go. We’ll find out in a couple hours. None of 
it is kind of planned or kind of predicted. So, just trying to enjoy the moment and not lose 
sight of how lucky we are. Not our comfort zone for sure. Having the attention and stuff on 
you, but I guess it’s a reality for the boys. She’s constantly ripping me to make sure I don’t 
embarrass him. Come here. I give you a hug. Good luck, kid. All right. You let it all roll off. 
You keep a smile on your face. It’s not going   to define you, man. It’s just the beginning. 
Hey, come on in, guys. How’s it going? Come on in. How’s it? Oh, good to see you. Sorry, 
the door. Just going to hold the door. How you   doing? It’s not bad. Not bad. Good. Good. Good. 
Guys, ready to to get ready? Get ready. Yeah, ready to get ready. So, coming at you now with 
a new fashion. I am the one. Yes, I am the one. I had no idea how many details there were going 
into suits. There’s specific measurements to   this to there’s different designs down here 
to there’s four books with 300 different fabrics on them. I like the colors and my 
initials there. On the back of my vest, I have a picture of my pond in my backyard with 
kind of little letters my parents wrote me. I have pictures of all my family, friends, money 
sign cuz the nickname cash. Like to dress dress nice. I I like to kind of have that swag or that 
uh that jam. Am I the one? [Music] Pretty sweet. Looks so good. Oh, definitely best suited draft. 
Matthew Schaefer is viewed as the top prospect in this draft. 6’2 defenseman who was a true 
high-end skater, high-end puck mover. Schaefer has been through a lot. He lost his mother to breast 
cancer. He lost his billet mom 3 months earlier. Through that, I think he’s matured at a very early 
age. Picture of me and my mom and then a ladybug was a big thing for me. Um, you know, I saw them 
as signs when my mom passed away. And actually,   there’s a ladybug right there. You see the dots? 
So, that’s a big thing. And obviously there’s stuff behind me. Here’s the skyline of Los Angeles 
behind me. 2025 draft. What about the caller? The back collar says, “Welcome to the show.” Or is 
it on there? Michael Misa would be an excellent first overall choice as well. There’s so much in 
his game that makes him hard to defend against. 61 center who can really skate. He’s dynamic 
all over the ice. It’s a big moment. This is a suit that I’ll have forever. James Hagen from 
Long Island, you know, grew up an Islanders fan, going to Islanders games. James can attack and 
control the puck and and play with with such a high pace. The inside bunch of pictures of family. 
What do you think when you look at those pictures? Love and just great memories. [Music] It’s so 
special. I really can’t believe this is happening, but just so proud, so excited, nervous, just 
everything. Just every emotion. Every emotion. Every emotion. Will your mother try to sprint on 
the stage? She might take the jersey. I wouldn’t put it. Yeah, I Yeah, [Music] you look so nice. 
This is a dream come true right now. We haven’t even started the draft. Porter Martone. You want 
a big body guy who plays physically, who can shoot the puck. Mone does all of that. What’s the 
contrast from your draft experience? Yeah. Well, I definitely didn’t have a TV crew following me 
around. Can you tighten my last shoe? Those pants are so tight you can’t bend over. No, they’re 
pretty tight. Put it up here. Throw it up here.   Right here. There you go. Well, you can’t bend 
over. Don’t rip those pants. Rip the pants. Yeah, that would not be good. I’m coming prepared 
with whatever team drafts my next order. I’ll have all the colors of the team. It’s a little 
pocket square. Is there a color that you’re like   this really good? No, there’s no color. I’m happy 
if he’s happy. He deserves Any team is lucky to have him. I did want to say something about the 
pond on the back of his vest. It’s just nice to know that he wanted to have something to like 
show home, you know, because he’s going to be off and running here, but he always has home. So, 
that’s uh the important thing about that for me. In my eyes, the most important thing is, you know, 
whatever team that selects you and that believes   in you. Um, just making sure you set a good first 
impression. Will Moore is one of the smartest players in this draft, conservatory level piano 
player. What? He’s kind of the first celebrity in the family, you know. It’s it’s so it’s it’s neat. 
It’s fun to watch. He’s a very creative player, a good passer. He also has one heck of a shot. 
Being a Brazilian, I tried so hard to get into soccer. Every time he tried, he would run away. He 
would always run towards the rock the the hockey rink. He kept telling us, “I don’t want to play 
soccer. I want to play that.” When the coaches put a stick in his hand, he just flew. And I’ll 
never forget that moment how much it meant to him to to to touch a puck. Kan H just said he’s in the 
conversation to be the second defenseman picked. A big energy guy. I’m going to bring the energy. 
I’m going to bring the excitement to to the barn. Every other team in the league will hate playing 
against him. He hits hard. He hits often. And he hits because he enjoys it. Brady Martin is the one 
name that I keep hearing hot name. He’s not here though because he’s back at the farm. Family 
of farmers. If one of them can’t come to feed   the cows, none of them are going to come. We’re 
at the farm where I grew up. We’re having a big party for the the draft night and hoping to get 
drafted tonight. It’s a lot of family, friends, past coaches, present coaches, a lot of people 
that uh care for me and have been along for my   journey. Pretty excited. I’m not too nervous. How 
are you feeling? Good. Pumped. Yeah, me too. I’m feeling grateful that I was along for this great 
ride that he’s had. It was not anything that I expected when we signed him up for hockey all 
those years ago. Did not anticipate this at all to be standing in my backyard in 2025 drafting to 
the NHL. I just want to thank everyone for coming. It’s a big night for Brady and we’re trusting 
that Brady’s going to end up in the spot that he’s meant to be. Tonight, a few select teenagers will 
hear their name called at the Peacock Theater. I love the unpredictability, I would say, of 
this draft. So many teams are trying to move   their first round picks. Just heard the Islanders 
just traded Doson for the 16th and 17th pick. So, uh, looks like they’re they’re making some moves 
and hopefully it’s to get to get James. and they   want to bring Hagen’s home. Do they have the 
juice? Do they have the appetite? Do they have a a trade partner to move up to four? How 
cool would that be to get the Long Island   boy? We’ve grown up Islanders fans and just 
excited, you know, the possibility of that. Let’s do it. Let’s do it. Let’s 
do it. All right, Grandpa. Thank you. Thank you. The hot rumor was 
that they would take the 16 and 17 pick and get number four to get him. We’ll see. Utah 
has that number four pick. Utah very active. This is a gift that we’re picking at four. We We 
locked out on this one and pick that high. So, it’s pretty special. I like hearing that. 
The top five are the money makers. So,   we’re right in with the money makers. We’ll see 
what we can do. See if we can make some hay. Sounds like four and five Utah and Nashville 
are considering options to move their picks. Each year is unique. You’ve got to be aware of 
what the movements may be to project who will be available. The Islanders are are aggressive 
in wanting to get back into the draft. They’re going to keep one, but they may want to get back 
into the draft. You’re looking at James Hagens. I’ve talked to uh six, seven, eight, nine. I 
didn’t talk to Well, I didn’t talk to 10. I text we text each other. To get in the top five, 
you know, you don’t want to be there year in and   year out. And uh so when you’re in there, you 
want to make sure that you get a core player or move back and turn it into multiple picks. They 
they want to give us a fifth. We want a third. So you you cut the baby at a fourth 
and then try to squeeze them for   their condition. We’re closing 
in on the 2025 NHL entry draft. [Music] It’s been incredible to watch 
you through this process of pressure at picking at four. The amount of work that 
you’ve done, the time you’ve committed   to be away from your families, to pay a 
price to get to this point right here. It’s not that complicated. Just find one good 
player, stack them on another good player,   and another good player, and soon 
enough, you get a championship team. Tonight, the NHL entry draft lands in Los 
Angeles. Lots of talent about to find their   NHL homes. This is it. Looking sharp. I like 
it. All right. I just want to get going. Did you What? I don’t want to stand here. There. I 
am right there. We see him. You see me up on the   billboard there. Where? Come on. Where? Right 
there. My card. Hockey card. Oh, is that Yeah, that is it. There we go. Where is it? The red 
carpet is literally down there and on the right. Okay. So, you’re not going to be able to see 
anything if you go with him. Okay. They want   you guys to watch. Off to hang out down there. 
No, I don’t have a ticket. I’m getting drafted, though. Nice shoot. Hey, you look good. Hey, man. 
You look good, too. I like the three-piece. Yeah.   The little button there. Yeah. How you feeling? 
Good. Yeah. Me, too. I’m just like ready for it to happen. You know what I mean? Like crazy that 
it’s now. As you go out there, you’re going to find you could sign a thousand autographs, which 
is wonderful, but would probably take all day. So, periodically, you might get a bit of a nod. Yeah. 
We want you to kind of move along. Who’s going to   be doing the nodding? Uh, there’s a few nods. 
As long as I’m not on nod duty. How’s Tyler good? Good. What am I? Here we go. Good luck. 
Good. Yeah. Thanks. You too. Look great. Are   you excited? Shapered. [Music] You excited to 
be a shark? I hope so. We’ll see. What’s up, guys? Let’s go, guys. Let’s go. Here we go. 
Let’s go. These young men, future stars, future superstars. What do you think? I love it. 
What do you think? We’ll see. Feeling or feeling it? I don’t know. We’ll see. I’ll go. Oh, you’re 
team Canada, huh? Go ahead. That’s all you. USA all the way. Yeah, USA. When we walk past the 
end, I’m like, who are these guys? We ready to walk through? Let’s do a walk through, guys. So, 
we’re on the air. Yeah. And uh now we’re going to make the pick. They wrap up with Chicago. Well, 
when Chicago makes the pick, we’re going to know,   right? Unless the phone rings, right? So, I won’t 
I won’t pick it up. We’re going to We’re going to pick here. Okay. And when’s the last time you 
talked to them? Is that yesterday around this time? No. No. I talked to him today. Oh, yeah. 
He told you he’s pretty well set, didn’t he? Yeah. Yeah. He’ll take whatever’s there. He’s 
pretty well set. So, I don’t expect to call. We got to work some of the names with you. So, the 
one name that you’re going to speak is pretty   tricky. In fact, I can’t get the damn thing. So, 
I I’ll do my best. That’s all I can say. Yeah, that’s all. Just say it quick. Hey, what’s 
up? Fine. What’s up, bud? It’s a sick game. Dad, do you have the tickets? I think we’re 
A’s. What a great venue. Yeah. Yeah. Hey, this is amazing. You think I cry? Yeah. 
I’m already I’m trying to hold right now. Come on. Selfie. Yeah. There you go. So much 
fun. Thank you. If the islanders draft you, put the sweater on really slowly, okay? And 
look at all parts of the sweater cuz you’ll notice some unique things on the sweater. So, 
look at it slowly. Extremely special. I don’t want to jinx anything, but when when if you if 
you go up first, we’ll see it. Do you should I do something or just sit here? Yeah, you can. You 
can get up and give me a handshake or something.   It’ll be good. Yeah, you can get up. I know. 
I know a couple guys are like a statue. Yeah, that’s strange. That’s strange. No. Yeah, 
you can get up and give me a handshake or   something. Yeah. Can I do it? Yeah. Yeah. 
100%. The NHL entry draft starts now. Here we go. Welcome to the 2025 Upper 
Deck NHL draft. Close to 100 prospects are here with us. I ask you to stand 
right now. [Applause] Money bank. So, here we go. Islanders, you’re on the clock. 
All signs point to Matthew Schaefer from SCP number nine. Jack Mertown does. Are you standing 
up for him? Yeah. Cool. Yeah. Makes sense. And the clock ticks. Are we being for real? Like his 
name should have been already called. Showtime. [Laughter] Pick is in. With the first 
overall selection in the 2025 NHL draft, the New York Islanders are proud to select 
from the Eerie Otters, Matthew Schaefer. [Music] Buddy, you can see the tears as they miss 
their mother. She should be hugging him right now. Gosh. Well, I love you then. Appreciate it. 
Hey, congrats. You deserve it. Congratulations. Being number one is special. You know, your mom 
would be really proud of you. Come over here and   get your sweater. And by the way, welcome 
to the NHL. Wow, this is crazy. [Applause] Wow, what a moment. As he kissed the 
ribbon on his sweater, he has lost it.   It’s great. It’s too rank to be emotional. 
It’s great. Let’s go talk to your team. Come with me. The first selection of the first 
round. Matthew Schaer. He deserves that. He’s gone through so much. What 
are you feeling right now? Um,   I think it’s just my mom. I I miss her a 
lot and I wish you could have be here today. What a moment. Wow. New York Islanders 
number one overall pick, Matthew Schaefer. Thank you. I appreciate it. Thanks, guys. 
Appreciate it. I’m happy I’m not, you know, crying as much anymore. That was uh a little Yeah, 
I I I tried to push through it. I think the draft picture is going to have, you know, tears falling 
down my face, but that’s okay. Oh, it’s crazy. [Music] The second selection in the 2025 NHL 
draft belongs to the San Jose Sharks. Now it’s Now it’s real. How’s the hair? Looks 
good. This is the interesting part of the draft where we get to the picks like this. I’m have 
a heart attack. Crazy. Clock’s running down. Fascinating elements and options available here 
for the San Jose Sharks. I feel like everyone’s   was different, right? Like I this Who did you 
have, Colobby? Who did you have second? I had Misa. And who did you have second? I had Fondell 
second. And who did you have second? No. The San Jose Sharks probably would have loved the Matthew 
Schaefer to go with those amazing young fours, but   they’re going to get a great player here. Please 
be Mike. With the second overall selection in the 2025 NHL draft, the San Jose Sharks are proud 
to select from the Sagenov Spirit. Michael Misa. Thank you, Congratulations. Love you. 
real. Congrats, man. So proud of you, bro. Thank you, bro. Wow. What a moment 
for Michael Misa, the newest member of the San Jose Sharks. Number two is a really 
big deal. Welcome to the NHL. Come on over. You relieved or excited or so? Excited. Grateful. 
Yeah, it’s awesome. Be a little bit of whirlwind in here for a bit, but No, it’s all Thanks, 
guys. [Applause] The third selection will be made by the Chicago Blackhawks. Announcing the 
selection, Jeremy Ronic. Yeah. All right. Nice. He was my coach for the All-American game from 
Jore Garden. Antonell. Congrats, man. Congrats, Big. So, our top three have been announced. Make 
way for the king. Up next, the first ever Utah Mammoth pick will be made. Couldn’t think of a 
better person to usher in the first pick in Utah   Mammoth history. So, thank you very much. Joining 
us from Utah, Tony Fen. Can I get a [Applause] [Music] The Utah Mammoth are proud to 
select from the Mouneune Wildats Caleb Deon. Crush that. Thanks, man. Oh, that was awesome. So, Nashville is now on the clock. It 
was a disaster in Tennessee last year.   They have three number one picks. I don’t know 
why they’d pass on James Higgins unless they like another Ford better. The only other one 
I could think of is Porter Marone. We could   ask him for one of those two picks. The 
this one right now we would be drafting. What are you offering? Marone right there. 
Yeah. But where you have at night? Oh yeah. I think we’re going to pick. So we are we 
definitely drafted. Before we make the pick, just want to thank everybody for all your work, 
passion. This is a huge pick for us. So, great job. I love the fact that we love this player. 
Pick is in. With the fifth overall selection, the National Predators select from the 
Sous St. Marie Greyhounds. Brady Martin. Now, Brady Martin was a hot name the 
last few years. Barry Trot kind of   player. All right. Well done. 
Hey, Trots. What’s going on? I just want to I want to welcome you and your 
family to Nashville. I can tell you this, our room is excited. Uh this franchise has been 
built on all the things that you bring to the game. Thank you very much. Uh thanks for taking a 
chance on me. I appreciate it. There’s no chance   taken on you. You’re going to be a great young 
man for us and a great player. Uh we’ll see you in a couple days and uh we’ll be in contact 
very soon. All right, sounds good. Thank you very much. I appreciate it. Good job. What now? 
Off to Nashville. We don’t got to watch the rest. The Flyers are on the clock. [ __ ] six. Making 
this selection for the Flyers. A legend in Philly, Sir Charles Barkley. Oh my god. You’ve got to be 
kidding me. Charles Barkley. Will it be Marton? Will it be Hagens for Keith Jones and Daniel 
Brier? Everybody good with Martone? You got something to say? Speak now. Thanks for having 
me tonight. I admire these guys. I respect them. They just want to win the Stanley Cup. I think 
it’s O’Brien Marone. And with the six kick, my flyers take Porter Marone from the 
Grand Field here. Thanks, Kathy. How do I Porter Martone the fifth Canadian taken 
in the first six picks. I deserve it,   man. His father, Mike, also drafted into the NHL. 
Oh, I can’t even handle it. Yes, smarty. Congrats, bro. Rick Ton’s going to love this guy, isn’t 
he? Oh, he’s exactly in his mold. You’re going   to love Philly. Yeah, I know. I’ve uh I’ve 
heard nothing but great things. I think you might have some pictures from your youth, some 
Flyers gear, so we can’t wait to see that. Yeah, I got some I got a Claweroo poster in my 
basement and a little Flyers magnet up on   uh up up somewhere in my basement as well and 
a Flyers jersey. So, I’m pretty excited. Me and my dad, we took a trip down to Philly on my 
birthday. Got to see a game there. So, you know,   I’m so honored and yeah, it’s honestly I 
can’t even put into words right now. I’m going man, bro. So, dude, pretty cool. Congrats, 
bro. Good. Yes. Yes. Thank you. Congrats, bro. Love you, man. So proud of you. Love you, 
bro. Love you there. So happy. The Islanders, they still have a couple of picks. 
Can they move up and get James Hagens,   the kid from Long Island? The seventh selection 
belongs to the Boston Bruins. Boston, you’re on the clock. This has got to be Hagen. There’s no 
way too small. Hello, Matthew. Swe. How are you? I’m good. How are you? Cool. Uh, let me call 
you right back. He knows who you want to take, obviously. So, we should take the pick. He 
was taking Higgins. Yeah. Okay. Thank you. Okay. Bye. They’re taking the pick. Next up, the 
Boston Bruins. And this is a bit of a surprise.   They do not pick in the top 10 very often. Take 
the pick. All right, fellas. Way to work. Way to work. I wonder who’s going to make their pick. My 
name is Happy Gilmore. How are you? Proud of you. The Boston Bruins select from 
Boston College, Gabe Den. Way to go, homie. [Applause] Thank you. What do 
you call his family over there? Look at how many there are. [Applause] Happy Gilmore making James 
Hans a very happy young man. Love it. Love it. That’s great. Congratulations. Welcome to the 
NHL. Long Island to Boston is not far. Not far at all. I love Happy Gilmore. It was my favorite 
movie. It’s something that doesn’t feel real. Got to get a look at your golf swing. So, Boston fans, 
you got to jump the swing right here. Take a look. There it is. Congrats, Adam. [Music] Pretty cool. What’s up back? How’s it going? 
Really excited to have you and um I mean we’re building something special. So yeah, to get 
started and play with you. All right. Well, we’re back. Pick us in. James, how are you, man? 
Cam Neely, Don Sweeney. Hi. Thank you so much for picking me. Sure. It’s a very exciting time for 
you and your family, so that’s awesome. Yeah. And   you’re you’re wearing a gold tie. The colors look 
good on you. I’m glad I’m staying in Boston. With the 17th overall selection, the New York Islanders 
are proud to select from the Barry Colts. Kahan H. There it is. Love you, buddy. Love you. Love 
you. How are you feeling right now to go first overall into such a great organization? It’s an 
honor. It’s truly an honor. Thank you. Sean HS, what would you think of having him as a teammate? 
I mean, you’d love to have him on your team. Can   you turn around here and take a look at at 
who just got picked on? Look at that. I mean, that’s a great guy to have on your team right 
there. And you don’t want to play against him,   that’s for sure. Congratulations. Welcome to the 
NHL. Congrats, bro. It’s kind of like an out-of- body experience. It’s everything you dream of. 
And yeah, I don’t think words can explain that. We have so many people here with Bruins 
hats on right now that are all smiles. You know where you’re where you’re playing now and   to be able to stay in Boston. 
It’s a dream come true. Marty, it just seems like it’s the perfect fit for 
Porter. He still has a Philly jersey that he had got when he was a kid. just felt really perfect. 
You know, I wouldn’t be the person or player I   am without everyone by my side. It’s very cool to 
celebrate with them. Oh, all in one. [Music] Oh, phone’s blowing off. Oh, thank Oh, how we doing? 
Yeah, thank you. Yeah, I can’t wait to meet you. Obviously, the main guy they bring up is obviously 
you. I look forward to meeting you soon. A good a   good journey. Good day for you. It’s been it’s 
been a lot of fun. Yeah. Yeah, I’m thrilled. Congrats, brother. Thanks, bro. I’ll try to get 
going with you. Thank you. Hi, Mr. Dar. How are you? I couldn’t be happier and I can’t wait to get 
going. Just try to enjoy it. It only happens once, but the work kind of starts now and I’m looking 
forward to that camp. Joe Thorne text jumble at the end of it. I’m like, what was I knew it 
was him. Really surreal. I don’t think I’ve   seen him cry like that in I don’t know, ever. 
Maybe. Yeah. since mom passed. Yeah. Family and my mom are super important to me. And you 
go to a team and they do things like put   a ribbon on it. They put my mom’s initials and 
it means so much to me and my family. [Music] The 32nd pick belongs to the Calgary 
Flames. Once this pick is made, the first round will be concluded 
with the 32nd overall pick. The Calgary Flames are proud to select 
Colin Potter. [Applause] [Music] You want to see your name highly picked as 
possible, but at the same time, I believe   everything happens for a reason. It was incredible 
to watch all my friends growing up get selected and just excited for tomorrow and excited for what 
I can do for the team that ultimately selects me. [Music]   We’re at the NHL draft day two and nothing 
but excitement. Just there’s no confidence lost. Um I’m just ready to go out there and 
you know prove myself. A lot of competition   out there. So whatever happens happens. It’s 
going to be a great day people. Great day. Great day. Okay. Good luck. Good luck kids. 
Thank you. Hard part’s over. There’s nothing to be nervous about anymore. It’s all right. 
The passage is number. You don’t have to keep   saying this. I’m fine now. Welcome to day two of 
the 2025 NHL draft. The first pick in the second round. The San Jose Sharks have selected Simon 
Wong from Ashawa. The Philadelphia Flyers select Jack Merrt [Applause] development program. 
Seamian Prolov. Eddie Genborg, Eric Nilson, Max Shenisca, Alexi Medvid, Shane Vansagi, 
Charlie Serado, Conrad Fondrich. The next order of selection belongs to the Boston Bruins. 
Bruins have made their selection. With the 19th pick in the second round of the 2025 NHL draft, 
the Boston Bruins have selected William Moore. [Applause] [Music] I love it. I love it. 
We love Boston City. He’s so educated, a fascinating guy there who’s highly, highly 
skilled. I’m fascinated to track his progress.   By the way, I’m shocked that Moore fell to that 
spot there. Good on the Boston Bruins. Oh my gosh, that’s incredible. Visited Boston many times. 
It’s one of the main reasons why I picked Boston   College ultimately and the opportunity to wear 
the jersey is really something special and you know something that I’ll be grateful for forever. 
Are you kidding me? So sorry. Oh my god. I’m so happy. I have to be selfish. I love Boston. I 
couldn’t be happier. Like when I heard Boston picking him like I could have jumped up and 
hugged everybody in the audience. It was one   of the happiest moments we ever had in Oh my god, 
I love this kid with all my heart. Like I’m like, honey, I cannot be more proud of you. 
I love you with all my heart. Yeah, congrats. When are you flying out? Today. Yeah. 
What time? I think we’re in the same place, right? Perfect. I missed that. Congrat. Congratulations. 
Thank you so much. Couldn’t be happier to have been with you. Yeah. Back with them. We’ll be 
with them for a while. can’t get away from me. Of course, I’ll see you next week. Congrats. 
We’re going to be together for a while,   you guys. Probably fly out tomorrow for 
development camp and then uh land in Asheville tomorrow night and yeah, then the development 
camp will probably start Monday and yeah,   we’ll go from there. I’m not too 
nervous. I’m pretty excited. I’m uh glad it got it was done. Like I I didn’t 
know if I’d be waiting for a while. So yeah,   no, it’s it’s great to hear my name called that 
early and yeah, I can’t wait for the next chapter. The first day and a half, like as soon as they 
get over the anxiety, then the excitement of   being selected, uh there’s that let down a 
little bit, right? There just emotionally you’re kind of drained and and they need that 
reset, but once as soon as they get to camp,   the energy takes over and and they get after 
it right away. It’s like a new beginning, new brotherhood, and they’re all signing up for 
the same thing. The developmental camp is a way   in which to endear your players right away. I 
mean, you get drafted, you pack your bag, you get to the team facility of the team that drafted 
you, and right away you get that introduction. So,   the developmental camp piece, I think, is just 
a big piece of what’s going to happen moving forward. The expectations are set forth for you 
as a player on and off the ice when you go back to your respective teams as you continue along that 
path. We’re uh going to watch the uh Islanders development scrimmage. Everyone was very excited 
when we got Schaefer. Like we’re all waiting,   your heart’s beating. And when they announced Matt 
Schaefer, everybody was crying and then especially too with his mom, him kissing the jersey. And I 
think he was as shocked as everybody. And I think   even my husband had tears in his eyes when all 
this was happening. So this is so exciting. They got some great players. It’s a fresh view to this 
organization. I’ll take this one. Get out there. Oh, that skate almost just 
nailed it. Middle. Where is it? There’s little kids here that could be out on 
the beach or by a pool or out in the sun. And   we showed up to our camp today. You just have to 
be so prideful to be able to walk out on that ice and to be a part of it. Um it’s it’s special. 
I’m super grateful. How are your legs? Are my legs more here at development camp? I’ I’ve known 
some people just planning at some different camps and events before, but a lot of new faces. It’s 
great to be around all these prospects because,   you know, hopefully lots of these prospects are 
playing in the NHL with the Flyers organization one day. So, it’s been really good to kind 
of meet them for the first time. You go over   there. Go down. Souls, go down. Go to the hash. 
My goal is to just take a lot of advice. You know, I think the development people are really smart. 
They’re really good at what they do. So, for me,   you know, I could take a lot of things from 
them, but they see they I can add to my game and, you know, really work on the summer. So, when I 
do come in the training camp, you know, I’m ready   to go and I’m ready to work. Yeah. Woo! Yeah! 
[Music] Wow! Still getting the love. It’s actually hot. I love when it’s a packed barn for cracking. 
Crazy. The fans are amazing here and we’re doing practice. We’re doing, you know, a scrimmage and 
all the fans are coming out to support and like,   “Wow, like these fans are amazing to come 
out at 9:00 a.m. and support us.” I mean, it’s it’s a pretty early wake up for us 
ourselves and especially for them. The   blue and white scrimmage was super fun. 
The crowd was into it. There was so much energy. The vibes were super high and all 
the players had that it was a blast. Wow. Did you fight a lot when you played? Yeah. Yeah. 
Who’s the toughest guy you fought? Really? Thank you for a great week. Dev camp’s been fun and I 
get out to meet a lot of new guys, new players.   It’s been cool to just see the guys that they 
brought in. It’s been a lot of fun and yeah, we went curling and uh yeah, I’m not very good 
at curling, but no, it was it was fun. We got   to talk to even more guys. So, get to know 
everyone a little bit better. These grip, eh? You’re going to show me how to do this 
or is it pretty hard or no? We’ll see. Okay. Nice and easy, bud. Nice and easy. Whip it. 
That is pathetic. Oh, too far. I’m going to throw them so hard and I’m going to knock 
them all out. Okay, I’m doing that. I’m   doing that. We got two stones left. Someone’s 
got to I’m going to huck this one in there. Oh no, don’t sweep. Don’t sweep. Hey, hello everyone. This a sports town, so they came 
to the right place and I’m glad we got them. A lot of energy. Thank you. Yeah. And and they have 
the energy. It looks like they have the energy. I   would just like to compare my hair to yours if I 
just Yeah, that that seems to answer. It’s been so much fun not only learning from, you know, what 
the staff has to offer, but just learning from, you know, your peers that are next to you. Um, 
competing against them. How do you know if you’re   doing a good job? Weight stable daytoday, body 
comp is stable monthto month. These dreams weren’t even attainable for me as a young kid. Didn’t know 
this was possible. And it’s just like, wow. Like,   this is a team I want to play for. who took an 
opportunity on me and who I want to essentially give my heart to. It truly has sunk in and I just 
want to give it my all to this team because they   deserve it. Thank you guys. Hell of a week, eh? Be 
on two. You want to be able to work for a roster spot at at the Bruins, whether that’s going back 
to school, no matter the timeline. Um, I’ll work   towards that. Oh, good. Thank you, boy. Oh, boy. 
The NHL dream feels super real now. Putting on that jersey, it hit. Now it’s business. Now it’s 
work. And now you have to work your ass off to uh get where you want to be and get to the main goal, 
which is play in the NHL and win a Stanley Cup.   Nothing comes easy. You’re going to have to fight 
for a roster spot every day. If you really want to make an impact to all these Bruins fans that 
take someone’s pride in the team, you have to put   your heart and soul out on the ice. The draft’s 
awesome, but it’s in the past. and you know, you’re fighting for a spot and you’re working 
hard each and every day and it’s a job now. So,   but playing in the NHL, I think that’s my biggest 
goal and obviously lots of work to come. So, can’t wait. [Music] Tonight is the night, 
my friends. The new energy has ignited the New York Islanders, and the much anticipated 
debut of their number one overall pick is here. Matthew Schaefer has earned a spot on the opening 
night roster. What was your first thought when your eyes open this morning? Obviously, super 
exciting. We dreamed of playing in the NHL one   day and play your first game once ever. So, 
um I mean just enjoy it. There you go. Shave sh from development camp all the way to preseason. 
I’ve learned so much along the way. It’s going to be a great season, long season. So, uh, 
you know, want to start off good. You want   to just get out there and get the legs going. 
Good job, guys. We had a great training camp. Tonight’s our first game. Let’s have some 
fun. Lot of fun out there. A lot of fun. Brady Martin making his NHL debut tonight. At what point during this process did it sink in? 
You could make the opening night roster. Yeah, I don’t know. I think I was coming into camp 
just open-minded. I thought I had a pretty   good shot and then I got the news. So, yeah, it 
was pretty exciting. It’s the first time you’ve seen your mom in a month and a half. What’s the 
emotion now of getting to see her in playing in front of her tonight? She’s done so much for me. 
So, yeah, to have her here with me and my family,   it’s it’s very exciting. I can’t wait to 
get out there. Hi, I’m Cheryl. Nice to meet you. Hi. Thank you. Thank you. Thank 
you very much. We’re your son is amazing. I think so, too. He is. I’m not talking 
hockey, though. I’m just talking He’s got a lot of uh a lot of the good qualities 
that you want. Well, I always worry that   when they leave home, they’re not going to 
remember anything I taught them. I’m like, if you just even remember half would be good. 
Yeah. Even Yeah, you get the half. Just half. Today’s been crazy to say the least. It It started 
with a chaotic drive up. It’s always chaotic in   the Schaefer family with or without an NHL game 
right in front of you, but shed a ton of tears. We’re super proud of him. It’s just crazy to see 
him putting on an NHL jersey. It’s something that you’ll never forget. To me, am I more stressed 
that it’s an NHL game? Absolutely. But to him, it’s just another game. Prior to warm-up, this is 
customary for somebody making their NHL debut. And how about the hot lap when you’re 18 years 
of age? I was crying like a baby. pinch me that Matthew Schaefer is on the ice with Sydney 
Crosby. He wants this so bad. He’s surrounded by so many good people. I’m just excited to 
watch him go out and live out his dream. Opening night in Smashville. There’s 
young Brady Martin going through the tough test of what it’s like 
to play in the NHL at age 18. morning and I can’t believe 
I’m yours. [Music] [Applause] Predators are ready to go. Brady Martin and 
his first touch in the NHL. [Applause] Hey, Tony. Matthew Schaer is on the ice for 
the New York Islanders. Hey, hey, hey. Welcome Sh. That was a good shift. Get the nerves out of him early. Dru snaps it over towards Matthew 
Schaer. Schaer the look. Drew scores. Schaefer will get his first point in 
his first game. Yes, baby. Let’s go, baby. Let’s go. Let’s go, baby. Thought I 
was done crying, but I guess not. Maybe.   I was excited to hear his name. Let’s 
go, baby. I didn’t take that. Let’s go, baby. Let’s go. You got to imagine for an 
18-year-old kid, the amount of nerves, like the fact that he came out there and he’s doing the 
fact that he’s on the same surface as Sydney Cros. [Music] When the crowd quiet down, I feel 
attraction. Radio lights action. Shafer, bring the engine. Hey. Hey. Good play, Matthew. 
Oh, buddy. They score it off. Yeah. Yes. For side of the net around 
turns, goes upstairs. He scores. And Brady Martin’s career as a predator 
starts with a W. It’s pretty electric   in the building tonight. Your first game, 
you’re going to remember it for the rest of your life. To get the first one under 
my belt and hopefully many more to come. Bank pass. Got it around Mayfield. Oh no. Brazo 
scores. The Penguins spoil Schaffer’s debut and the Islanders opener with a 4-3 win in 
front of their home fans. The win would have been a little bit nicer. It was a great 
experience. A good first game for sure. Good. My family, my mom, dad, brother have made a 
lot of sacrifices for me to be here today. Take a chance cuz nobody knows. The long 
drives shooting on my mom and that me and my dad jamming music. My brother when he’d 
come to games I’d be super excited. Is that   for me? Great. Wow. Thanks, buddy. And the 
work doesn’t stop here. Just getting started. [Music] [Applause] [Music] It’s just beun.

The second part of Welcome to the NHL presented by BODYARMOR Sports Drink features exclusive behind-the-scenes access at the 2025 Upper Deck NHL Draft, the competitive spirit of team development camps and the elation of players hitting the ice in their first NHL games.

Produced by NHL Productions, the second episode in the two-part series follows prospects including Matthew Schaefer (No. 1 overall, New York Islanders), Michael Misa (No. 2 overall, San Jose Sharks), Brady Martin (No. 5 overall, Nashville Predators), Porter Martone (No. 6 overall, Philadelphia Flyers), James Hagens (No. 7 overall, Boston Bruins), Kashawn Aitcheson (No. 17 overall, New York Islanders) and William Moore (No. 51, Boston Bruins) as they experience the highs and lows that come with one of the most significant moments in their hockey careers – Draft day.

For the first time, the show also goes beyond Draft day and follows newly drafted players as they enter the first stage of their NHL careers. Welcome to the NHL cameras go behind the scenes at Islanders, Bruins, Flyers and Predators development camps as players are welcomed to the team and meet fans for the first time. The show highlights 18-year-olds Matthew Schaefer and Brady Martin making their highly anticipated NHL debuts with their families in attendance. Schaefer is mic’d up as he records his first NHL point on Islanders opening night, while Martin shares the joy of his first NHL win in the Predators home opener.