Matthew Schaefer breaks down crying on stage when selected first overall

How can you not root for Matthew Schaefer.

The defenseman is the first overall pick of the 2025 NHL Draft, and was selected by the New York Islanders.

As soon as his name was called, his father was seen crying with his brother as many other top prospects went up to him to hug him.

This was an emotional for Matthew, who wished his mother was there to see him. His mom Jennifer died of breast cancer in February of 2024. On Friday ahead of his selection, he had her picture and signature stitched to the inside part of his suit jacket on the left side, close to his heart.

Once he got to the stage next to NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, Matthew Schaefer broke down crying. He put the Islanders’ jersey and kissed the Hockey Fights Cancer logo, before more tears.

The cancer ribbon was specially placed on Schaefer’s jersey by the Islanders, and they also embroidered the inside of his collar with his mother’s initials “JS”.

Just amazing.

When he spoke with Islanders new GM Mathieu Darche, he thanked the organization, saying how he wished his mom were here and everyone reminded him how proud she is.

"It's my mom, for sure. I miss her a lot. I wish she could be here right now." Schaefer cried.

Watch below the emotional scene at the NHL Draft: