It’s NHL Draft Time!
2025 Upper Deck Draft logo (nhl.com)
It has been an exciting week in the sports world, especially for the young up-and-comers who once dreamed of going pro. If you thought the drafts were ending with the NBA, there’s still one more to keep an eye out for… Hockey fans, we’re talking to you!
It is extremely difficult to get drafted by the NHL. Most hockey players grow up participating in the sport from a young age, and it is common for them to play in junior college before going off to college or the draft. The hardest part is that the competition is fierce; there are many eligible players but only a limited number of teams.
So basically, the draft is a big deal.
The first round of the Upper Deck NHL Draft happened last night, and it was magical watching prospects’ dreams come true. There were so many great moments last night, but these are a few of our first-round picks!
Matthew Schaefer’s Tribute to his Late Mother
At just 17 years old, Matthew was regarded as the top prospect of the 2025 NHL Draft. To no one’s surprise, he was selected first overall by The New York Islanders!
His road to the NHL was not an easy one. In 2023, Matthew lost his host mom, and two months later, he lost his mother, Jennifer, to breast cancer. Additionally, Matthew had to overcome a serious injury after the 2025 World Junior Championship.
Matthew was carrying his late mother with him throughout the evening, wearing a suit detailed with a picture of him and his mother, along with her signature on the inside.
After putting on the Islanders jersey, Matthew kissed the breast cancer patch that the Islanders added and pointed to the sky, a tribute to his late mom. It was one of those raw and emotional moments that makes sports so special, and we know his mom would be so proud of how far he has come.
It’s Boston Through and Through for James Hagens
James was a bit of a wildcard when it came to this year’s draft. Many speculated he might end up with his hometown team, the Islanders. However, he was picked by the Boston Bruins!
Although it may not be the full-circle moment we suspected, James played for Boston College and will be staying in the city for the foreseeable future.
With Adam Sandler in character as the iconic Happy Gilmore announcing the pick, James had to have one of the coolest announcers of the night. “Happy Gilmore” happens to be James’ favorite movie, so it was a surreal moment when Adam Sandler showed up on the screen.
“I’m so excited. I’m so excited to be back in Boston and to have Adam Sandler make the pick, it was special”
A cameo from Adam Sandler and a ticket to the NHL… Best. Night. Ever.
Carrying on Gaudreau’s Legacy
Sports give us all a community from celebrating wins and feeling a sense of belonging to helping people through some of the most difficult times in their lives.
Since Johnny Gaudreau’s passing the Blue Jackets' have honored him in many ways. Tonight was another opportunity to remind everyone of the profound impact Johnny had on us.
Last night, Meredith Gaudreau represented her late husband to announce the team’s pick. When she took the stage, she was greeted with a standing ovation, and the crowd chanted Johnny’s name.
“I just wanted to take this time to thank every single team and every single fan base for your support for my family this past season. It’s truly an honor to be here and from the bottom of my heart, I thank you.”
Draft and Disneyland in One Night?
After the Ducks drafted Roger McQueen, he headed straight to Disneyland to celebrate and meet his name twin, Lightning McQueen. Maybe Roger will be sporting the infamous 95 on the back of his jersey!
Stay tuned for Day 2!