ELMONT, NEW YORK – Matthew Schaefer, who went No. 1 overall to the New York Islanders in 2025, will face San Jose Sharks forward Michael Misa, the No. 2 pick, for the first time on Tuesday.

The duo are forever joined as being the first two picks of the 2025 NHL Draft. Misa told reporters that he’s known Schaefer for a long time.

“I’ve known him for a while now. We’re pretty good friends, so it’s cool to see what he’s doing over there,” Misa said. “I played with him a lot this year in terms of those prospect games or in the summer showcase for the World Juniors. Just getting them to know him. I skate with him in the summer, so just getting to know him over the last couple of years, it’s been great. He’s a great guy.”

The Islanders defenseman has an incredible upbringing story. Schaefer lost his mother to a battle with cancer. He also lost his billet mom to cancer during his time in the OHL. At 18, Schaefer has dealt with an incredible amount of loss in his life, but it’s only made him stronger.

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“The kid has been through a lot. Just listening to him, he’s a very well spoken person, and he’s obviously a very talented hockey player,” San Jose Sharks coach Ryan Warsofsky said. “He’s got a great head on his shoulders with his brother and his dad. The whole story, it’s tragic, but you can tell he’s got a high, high character. Probably a lot of it from his mom. He’s a special talent.”

While all the praise is deserved for Schaefer, Misa still has something to prove in their first matchup.

“There will definitely be some little competition on the inside. He went one, I went two,” the Sharks forward said. “It’s a matchup I’ve been looking for, and I’m excited for it.”

Warsofsky sees improvement from Misa in a short time frame

Schaefer is breaking records as an 18-year-old defenseman through the first part of the NHL season, while Misa is still finding his footing. Warsofsky said he’s seen the Sharks’ rookie start to find his footing through two games.

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“We’ve got to keep playing him, see how [he] develops. Part of where we’re at as an organization is we have some young players that need to play and develop,” Warsofsky said. “He’s had a good week of practice. Good game. Gonna keep going.”

But where specifically has Warsofsky seen Misa improve his game?

“He just looks more comfortable with the pace. I think he can still hold on to some more pucks, but he got some really good looks last game,” the Sharks coach said. “He’s not thinking as much. Playing with his instincts has been the most developed trait so far. We’re gonna keep pushing the envelope.”

Tuesday will be Misa’s first road game in his NHL career, but he’s not worried.

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“It is what it is. Just go out there and try and play my game no matter what the environment is,” Misa explained. “We’re looking to get our first win, so we’re going to be ready.”

Misa will center a line with Collin Graf on the left wing and Adam Gaudette on the right. Gaudette is a game-time decision due to illness. Gaudette was able to participate in the Sharks’ morning skate.

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