Matthew Schaefer has quickly become one of the most influential rookies in the NHL, and the Penguins will see him at full force Monday when they visit the Islanders in Elmont, NY.
The 19‑year‑old defenseman enters the matchup as the clear frontrunner for the Calder Trophy and is closing in on the league record for goals by a rookie defenseman — a mark that has stood since Brian Leetch's 23 during the 1988-1989 season. His scoring touch from the blue line has reshaped New York’s attack and elevated him into one of the most dangerous young players in the league.
"He's obviously a big part of their team already and they've been playing well all year," said Erik Karlsson. "They got some guys on that team that obviously drive the bus."
Schaefer’s impact extends well beyond his goal total. He drives play with pace, regularly jumps into the rush, and has become a central piece of the Islanders’ transition game. His ability to turn defensive-zone retrievals into clean exits — and exits into controlled entries — has given New York a dimension it hasn’t had on its back end in years. His skating allows him to close quickly defensively and then immediately push play the other way, often catching opponents flat‑footed.
THE ASYLUM
Schaefer drives the bus for the Islanders
Matthew Schaefer has quickly become one of the most influential rookies in the NHL, and the Penguins will see him at full force Monday when they visit the Islanders in Elmont, NY.
The 19‑year‑old defenseman enters the matchup as the clear frontrunner for the Calder Trophy and is closing in on the league record for goals by a rookie defenseman — a mark that has stood since Brian Leetch's 23 during the 1988-1989 season. His scoring touch from the blue line has reshaped New York’s attack and elevated him into one of the most dangerous young players in the league.
"He's obviously a big part of their team already and they've been playing well all year," said Erik Karlsson. "They got some guys on that team that obviously drive the bus."
Schaefer’s impact extends well beyond his goal total. He drives play with pace, regularly jumps into the rush, and has become a central piece of the Islanders’ transition game. His ability to turn defensive-zone retrievals into clean exits — and exits into controlled entries — has given New York a dimension it hasn’t had on its back end in years. His skating allows him to close quickly defensively and then immediately push play the other way, often catching opponents flat‑footed.
Want to participate in our comments?
Want an ad-free experience?
Become a member, and enjoy premium benefits!
We’d love to have you!