Tom Brady Backs Rookie Matthew Schaefer After Islanders’ Win
After an exhilarating overtime win against the Maple Leafs, rookie star Matthew Schaefer caught the attention of none other than NFL legend Tom Brady.
In a video posted on Noble’s Instagram, Brady revealed his admiration for the 18-year-old player. “I’ve got the eye of the tiger,” he said, donning a branded hoodie, backwards cap, and sunglasses, when asked which NHL athlete he would want to sign for his sportswear brand.
“You know, I talked to this kid Matthew. He has those ‘tiger eyes’—that same look I’ve always had. Matthew Schaefer—have you heard of him? That’s the guy I want,” Brady expressed.
Brady has made quite a business move, becoming the second-largest shareholder in St. John’s after merging his wellness brand TB12 and apparel line with Noble in 2024.
Just a day after Schaefer’s impressive two-goal performance against the Leafs, his emerging talent continued to shine through. Drafted first overall in the 2025 NHL Draft, he has surpassed all expectations, racking up 12 goals and 16 assists in his first 42 games.
With a solid performance, he currently ranks third among rookies for goals and total points, and impressively among defensemen in the league.
Schaefer had even been a contender for Canada’s Olympic roster, though he was eventually removed from consideration late last year.
Following the game against the Leafs, another NHL star, Auston Matthews, praised Schaefer as “the real deal.” Matthews noted how obvious Schaefer’s skills are when seen up close: speed, size, and overall gameplay. “He’s going to continue to excel in this league,” Matthews added.
Veteran John Tavares, once heralded as the Islanders’ savior, referred to Schaefer as a “stud,” highlighting the high regard the rookie has earned.
As his rookie season unfolds, Schaefer is garnering attention not just in the hockey community but even beyond it. Fans of the Islanders will surely be encouraged by Brady’s endorsement, hoping it signals a bright future for Schaefer and the team on Long Island.
