"Despite being the first overall pick at this past NHL draft, Schaefer was not a lock to make the Opening Night roster. The Islanders wanted to see how he looked during camp before making that decision. But Schaefer has proven the front office was smart to put him on the roster. In 58 games this season, he has racked up 16 goals and 23 assists for 58 points."
"Not only do these stats rank in the top three among Islanders, but NHL rookies as well. Sure, he does not lead the way in any category, but to be that high up in those stats as a defenseman is very impressive. Schaefer is also the current favorite to take home the Calder Trophy at the end of the season. Even the most optimistic Islanders fan could not have predicted what Schaefer has done."
The New York Islanders entered 2025-26 as a competitive but uncertain playoff team and currently sit 32-21-5, third in the Metropolitan Division. Several players have exceeded preseason expectations, significantly improving team performance. Rookie defenseman Matthew Schaefer emerged as a franchise-changing presence after making the Opening Night roster. In 58 games he has 16 goals and 23 assists for 58 points, ranking among the team's top three scorers and high among NHL rookies for a defenseman. Schaefer is a leading Calder Trophy candidate. His energy and production are major factors in the Islanders' playoff and deep-run prospects.
Read at Eyes On Isles
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