Matthew Schaefer’s strong start to his rookie season has opened eyes at Hockey Canada.
The New York Islanders defenceman was informed on Wednesday that he was added to Canada’s IOC long list for potential selection to the 2026 Winter Olympics team.
TSN Hockey Insider Pierre LeBrun notes that there is protocol involved in adding a player to the list and this was carried out over the past few days.
Hockey Canada informed Matthew Schaefer on Wednesday night that he has officially been added to Team Canada’s IOC long list (90-plus players).
There’s a protocol involved in adding a player to the IOC list and Hockey Canada got word a few days ago that he was officially added. https://t.co/KtbJTw2Pxb
— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) November 20, 2025
An 18-year-old native of Hamilton, Ont., Schaefer was the first overall selection of the 2025 NHL Entry Draft out of the Ontario Hockey League’s Erie Otters.
He’s appeared in 20 games for the Isles this season, scoring seven goals and adding eight assists while averaging 22:30 of tice time a night.
Internationally, Schaefer has represented Canada at a number of youth levels and was a member of Canada’s entry at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championships in Ottawa.
Canada’s roster for the games, set for Milano-Cortina, must be submitted by Jan. 1. Canada opens its tournament on Feb. 12 against Czechia.