The Washington Capitals have selected 18-year-old Eisbaren Berlin LW Maxim Schafer with the 96th pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.
Schafer played limited minutes on the best team in the DEL. He was impressive when he played for Germany’s international team, though, including at the World Juniors. Schafer is a big, skilled winger who can create off the rush and at the net-front. He has good vision and creates a lot of chances in the offensive zone. Schafer’s main issue is his skating. He has a heavy stride and will struggle to gain the zone in the NHL. While he’s big and competes fine, he’s not overly physical. He could be a useful bottom-six winger if he handles the NHL pace.
