Schaefer officially an Islander

The contract is signed.  Our number 1 pick is OFFICIALLY and Islander!

Matthew Schaefer signed his ELC yesterday with the help of 20 kids, who have lost a parent.  Schaefer, who lost his billet mother and mother last year, knows what it is like, and he showed his  compassion and understanding with the kids.

After talking and signing jerseys for 19 of the 20 young folks, the 20th kid, Cole, gave Matthew his Entry Level Contract to sign.  With Matthiew Darche at his side, his NHL three year deal is in the books.  Schaefer, will get $950,000 this season and $875,000 for the next two.  With bonuses, he could make as much as $4,500,000.

His first year of the contract will not kick in, unless he is on the roster for 10 games.  If not - he MUST be returned to his junior team, the Erie Otters.  He cannot go to college, as an NHL contract has been signed; however, college was not on the route for Schaefer's path to the NHL.  

It is also a possibility that he may still be able to play for Team Canada in the World Junior Championships over the Christmas holiday, but in my opinion, he will be still on the "Island" at that point if he is with the team.

It is the opinion of this author - he should get on the roster, and will stay on it.  A few months ago - I was not 100% sold on the idea, but after a conversation with Hockey Prospects Shane Malloy, I have been convinced that he is not just a 17 year old with an upside.  He is a special player that is not only wise above his years, but he is going to be an impact player earlier than expected for the average 18 year old player.

His skill level is insane.  If you can find it on You Tube, look for a video with him with the guys from Bar Down (A TSN show on hockey) - his abilities are off the charts, and he has a great sense of humor as he is dealin wht the guys from the show.  But we all know that he has the aura of a seasoned NHL veteran as opposed to a teenager.

I am happy that he is going to be a member of this team for years to come.  I hope that thousands of '48' jerseys are all over UBS arena in the near future.  Thank goodness that Lou is not the GM - so Matthew can get his number.

What do you think?  Let's talk about it.