The Islanders took defenseman Matthew Schaefer as the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NHL draft, making him the fifth defenseman drafted first overall since 2000.

Corey Pronman details what to expect from the New York Islanders’ new prospects and how they fit into the farm system. 2025 Draft Grade: A+. The Islanders brought the most clear

So Darche has made a big move to kick off his tenure that could backfire, and what Darche does with those two additional picks will enter the equation. But hanging on to the #1 overall pick and selecting Schaefer was a no-brainer.