In a move that’s got hockey card collectors rushing to check their binders, Matthew Schaefer, one of the brightest young stars on the ice, has signed an exclusive multi-year agreement with none other than Upper Deck. Just shy of his eighteenth birthday, the defenseman is already being hailed as the golden boy for the anticipated 2025 NHL Draft, predicted to be the top pick. Upper Deck has finally captured this elusive prospect, sealing it in glossy paper and holographic foil.
For those unfamiliar with trading card hierarchies, an “exclusive deal” means Upper Deck is the sole purveyor of all things Schaefer-induced cardboard delight. Fans yearning to add a Matthew Schaefer rookie card—a potential goldmine for the future—or get their hands on his signature emblazoned across a puck, jersey, or print, will find Upper Deck as their only avenue. It’s a monopoly that’ll keep hockey enthusiasts on their toes and possibly shaking their fists while eagerly adding to their collections.
Schaefer’s journey from cracking open packs of cards in his childhood to becoming one of the most sought-after collectibles is a real rags-to-riches in the trading card world. “It’s pretty special,” he mused, recalling fond memories of family bonding over their shared hobby. Now, his own rookie card will be sitting in those packs, a dream realized before even acquiring adult privileges like renting a car.
Upper Deck is practically glowing with pride at securing the rights to Schaefer’s illustrious young career. “Matthew Schaefer is undeniably one of the most promising young talents in hockey today,” acclaimed the company president, Jason Masherah. A sentiment echoed through the halls of collectors and fans alike, undoubtedly drafting plans for Schaefer to slip seamlessly onto their renowned Young Guns line, known to feature the crème de la crème of NHL future stars.
Over on the ice, Schaefer has been making waves with the Erie Otters, showing how a defenseman can shine offensively. With 22 points scored in just 17 games this season, his skill is glaringly evident despite battling injuries. His prowess likely led to him being the team’s first overall pick in the 2023 OHL Draft—a testament to his iceberg of potential. Internationally, he’s already got his hands heavy with gold medals from the U17 World Challenge and the U18 Worlds, proving his mettle on the global stage and rendering the World Junior Championship doubters silent.
For those anxious to lay hands on Schaefer memorabilia, the wait won’t be long. Upper Deck confirmed that an array of autographed pucks, jerseys, and artistic prints is set to hit their online store by the end of the month. Following that, his first official trading cards will debut post his grand entrance into the NHL, a moment that’s bound to spark feverish excitement among collectors. It might be wise to clear a spot in card displays because when a player of Schaefer’s promise is involved, demand has a habit of skyrocketing.
Looking ahead, all eyes are set on the 2025 NHL Draft, slated for June 27–28 at the glamorous L.A. Live’s Peacock Theater. The venue is poised to be a stage worthy of Schaefer’s magnitude, where he’s expected to take the spotlight and officially kickstart his NHL journey. With Upper Deck immortalizing his bright potential in the form of trading cards, Schaefer’s star is primed not only to rise but potentially rocket into the annals of hockey history, and, of course, into a complete set of mint-condition collectibles.
As hockey fans and card collectors brace for what’s to come, Schaefer’s cardboard debut looks set to be nothing short of glittering. Growing up amidst packs of cards and now becoming one himself, he reinforces the dream every young fan has, of seeing themselves immortalized on a glossy piece of fanfare. Collectors, get ready—this is one card you won’t want to miss.
