"He's fourth on the team in points through the New York Islanders' first 16 games, with 12 points and five goals. Schaefer has also played sound defense, committing eight takeaways, blocking 18 shots, and contributing 22:13 of average total ice time. That kind of play from a kid in their age-18 season will always put a target on their back, and it's something we have seen happen plenty of times to Schaefer."
"But if Schaefer wants this madness to stop or make opponents think twice about going after him, then he needs to stand up to those hard-hitting veterans when they decide to slam him into the boards. If Schaefer turns the tables and hits back at those who decide to target him, that will send a message to the rest of the league."
Matthew Schaefer has 12 points and five goals through the Islanders' first 16 games and ranks fourth on the team in scoring. He complements offense with defense, posting eight takeaways, 18 blocked shots, and averaging 22:13 of ice time. At age 18 he draws attention and has been physically targeted, including a brutal hit from Nikita Zadorov that sparked a brawl. Acquiring a veteran protector is an instinctive option, but standing up and answering hits would deter opponents. Schaefer's 6'2", 186-pound frame is capable of absorbing and delivering physical play. Consistent assertiveness can preserve performance and deter future targeting.
Read at Eyes On Isles
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]