The New York Islanders have officially signed their 2025 first-overall pick, Matthew Schaefer, to a lucrative three-year entry-level contract valued at $975,000 against the salary cap. With an average annual value of $4.475 million, Schaefer's deal includes a base NHL salary of $877,500, coupled with a $97,500 signing bonus, and performance bonuses that could total up to $3.5 million. Schaefer expressed his eagerness to prove himself and secure a spot on the NHL roster, emphasizing the hard work ahead.

In other NHL news, the Vancouver Canucks have signed forward Vitali Kravtsov to a one-year, two-way deal, while the Anaheim Ducks have re-signed Sam Colangelo to a two-year contract maintaining a cap hit of $850,000. Additionally, the Toronto Maple Leafs extended defenseman William Villeneuve's contract after a solid season with the Marlies, where he showcased significant offensive skill. Meanwhile, former Dallas Stars goaltender Anton Khudobin has announced his retirement, wrapping up a career that included stints with several teams across the league.