When the Islanders report to training camp next week at Northwell Health Ice Center in East Meadow, there will be a mix of core roster players who will be getting ready for the season, young players who will be fighting for roster spots, and prospects who are likely to be sent down to AHL Bridgeport or returned to juniors.
But before the big camp begins, 26 players have gathered at the Islanders practice facility to take part in the team’s Rookie Camp. It’s an opportunity for some really talented young players to made another impression on the Islanders coaches and front office before they share the ice with the veteran players next week.
“Every day, you have to go as hard as you can,” said defenseman Matthew Schaefer, this year's first overall pick. “Every day, everyone is fighting for a spot, and you gotta leave it all out there no matter what. Each day you want to get better and better.”
As an 18-year-old, Schaefer will be pushing hard to make the Islanders’ opening night roster - but if that doesn’t happen, he’ll return to Erie of the Ontario Hockey League for another season in juniors.
Schaefer is one of 8 defensemen at Rookie Camp. Also in attendance is fellow 2025 first-round pick Kashawn Aitcheson, who taken 17th overall in the 2025 NHL Draft. Aitcheson was at Islanders Development Camp earlier this summer, and has another opportunity to open some eyes.
“It’s super important,” said Aitcheson. “Each place is a stepping stone. You just want to take in everything you can get here and keep using that information to push you forward.”
Aitcheson has an impressive skill set, including a strong offensive game, and while he’s made improvements in his skating, he will likely be sent back to Barrie of the Ontario Hockey League.
A player that the Islanders and their fans will be paying special attention to at training camp will be forward Calum Ritchie, who was acquired last season from Colorado in the Brock Nelson trade.
Ritchie is expected to make a strong push for a roster spot with the big club and is using the Rookie Camp to make an early impression.
“It’s good to set the tone and get ready for the rest of camp,” said Ritchie. “My goal is to play in the NHL like everyone here, so I’m just going to work my hardest and try to achieve that.”
If Ritchie doesn’t make the team, he’ll start the season in Bridgeport, and could be one of the first call-ups if the Islanders need some assistance from across the Long Island Sound.
And tasty as it all is, Rookie Camp is just the appetizer.
The Islanders will report to training camp on Tuesday and will be on the ice for the first time on Wednesday. For the young players, it’s a golden opportunity to be a part of a new era in Islanders history.