si
New York Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer delivered a historic rookie season in 2025-26, and he picked up right where he left off in his sophomore debut. The No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft was expected to develop into a top-pair defenseman, but he quickly surpassed those expectations and established himself as a bona fide NHL superstar.
Schaefer tied the rookie defenseman record with 23 goals last season, and his 59 points were the most ever by an 18-year-old. He led the Islanders and all rookies in average ice time at 24:41 per game, earning a unanimous Calder Trophy selection. With such a remarkable first year, the question was what he would do for an encore. If his first preseason action was any indication, even a role change won't slow him down.
In the Islanders' 2026-27 opener against the New York Rangers, Schaefer was spectacular. Head coach Peter DeBoer noted that Schaefer's style of play allows him to perform effectively on either side of the ice. Despite being a left-handed shot, Schaefer is expected to see time on the right side, and the team wasted no time implementing that plan, pairing him with Adam Pelech on the top defensive unit.
Regardless of which side he plays, Schaefer finds ways to make an impact, and he did exactly that against the Rangers. He showcased his powerful long-range shot, ripping a wrist shot past Igor Shesterkin that bounced off the post, then off the goalie's back and into the net for the Islanders' second goal. The power-play marker set the tone for the rest of the night.
New York capitalized on the Rangers' sloppy play, earning five power-play opportunities and converting three times. In the third period, newcomer Matias Maccelli scored twice with the man advantage, with Schaefer assisting on both goals—a secondary assist on the first and a primary assist on the second. The Islanders' power play has struggled in recent years, but Schaefer's three power-play points in the season opener suggest a potential turnaround.
Key Analysis
Schaefer's ability to play both sides of the blue line gives DeBoer greater flexibility to mix and match defensive pairings. At just 19 years old, Schaefer's potential seems limitless under his new coach. If his debut is any indication, the Islanders may have found a cornerstone player capable of leading their resurgence.