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When New York Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer receives the puck, anticipation builds among fans, as his dynamic playmaking often leads to scoring chances.
At 19 years old, Schaefer's combination of skating and stick-handling has already established him as one of the NHL's top defensemen, and his potential appears limitless.
This was evident on October 10th, when the Tampa Bay Lightning traveled to UBS Arena to face the Islanders. Schaefer took a pass at the blue line, maneuvered around a defender to create space, and fired a shot on net. The puck was redirected by Jean-Gabriel Pageau, cutting the Lightning's lead to 3-2 midway through the second period.
Schaefer's Skating Mirrors Nathan MacKinnon
Schaefer's ability to create space with the puck rivals that of any player in the league, a testament to his exceptional edge work and footwork. When splitting from defenders—whether on the forecheck or at the blue line seeking a passing or shooting lane—he can generate separation much like Nathan MacKinnon does. MacKinnon, known for his explosive stops and starts, can carve out up to 20 feet of space and blow past opponents with his speed. While Schaefer may not possess MacKinnon's straight-line speed—a trait few in the NHL share—he still excels at creating room for himself.
Furthermore, Schaefer's ability to navigate the blue line is approaching the level of Cale Makar, another star from the Colorado Avalanche. Although Schaefer has yet to score a goal this season, he has recorded four assists in five games, and his first goal seems imminent.
The Islanders, holding a 2-3 record at the time of writing, have been alternating wins and losses. To contend for a playoff spot, they must find consistency as the season progresses, though 79 games remain to right the ship.
Whenever Schaefer has the puck, fans sense something significant is about to unfold. His hockey IQ is remarkably high for a 19-year-old second-year defenseman, and with time, his skills will only continue to develop. Viewed as a franchise-changing selection for the Islanders, Schaefer is proving to be exactly that.