Schaefer’s First Practice
Matthew Schaefer hit another milestone on Thursday, as he skated in his first NHL training camp.
“I thought today was a really good step, but I'm looking to progress a lot more and I know I got a lot more in my tank,” Schaefer said.
Speaking of first steps, that’s what stood out to Scott Mayfield when asked about Schaefer.
“His first step is phenomenal,” Mayfield said. “If you watch when we transition up the ice, he’s just boom, boom, he’s up the ice already. He’s got that speed.”
Schaefer was paired with Mayfield, giving the 2025 first-overall pick a veteran partner to help show him the ropes.
“Scotty was honestly a big help today,” Schaefer said. “Obviously having him as a D partner, there’s lots of talk. Every time I come back to the bench, my ears are wide open for him, let me know what I need to do better on.”
Roy said he wants Mayfield to play a “big brother kind of role” for Schaefer and that he was impressed with the 18-year-old. Mayfield is up for the mentorship role and discussed his approach to helping Schaefer.
“For me it’s communication,” Mayfield. “If he has a question, it’s being able to answer it. I know the systems well, I know what Patty and the coaching staff want and expect from us. It’s just helping him out any way I can if he has questions. And on the ice, just back him up and make sure I’m there for him, talking and being that steady presence.”
Schaefer said he didn’t feel any nerves at his first day of an NHL camp, which was music to Roy’s ears.
“We want him to feel free out there, have fun and enjoy himself,” Roy said. “Not feeling pressure or whatever. I want him to be himself and that’s going to be very important.”
