Brayden Schenn had seen the highlights.
The veteran center now shares a locker room with Matthew Schaefer-the 18-year-old New York Islanders defenseman turning heads across the NHL. Acquired by the team before the trade deadline, Schenn calls Schaefer “a special person” who “really cares about the people in this locker room.”
Schaefer, the runaway favorite for the Calder Trophy, has posted 49 points (20 goals, 29 assists) in 68 games while logging over 24 minutes per night-leading all Islanders defensemen. He’s also drawing Norris and Hart Trophy consideration in his debut season.
Despite losing his mother to cancer in 2024, Schaefer has played with remarkable poise. After just 17 games with the OHL’s Erie Otters and two at the World Juniors before a collarbone injury, few expected immediate NHL impact. But head coach Patrick Roy says Schaefer’s defensive awareness rivals his offensive flair.
“He’s gapping so well, he’s got a great stick,” Roy said. “The way he’s been defending-it’s pretty impressive.”
Toronto’s John Tavares, himself a former teenage phenom, labeled Schaefer a “generational-type of talent.” Teammates praise his authenticity and work ethic.
“He’s not fake at all,” Schenn said. “Sincere with how he handles himself.”
As the Islanders sit third in the Metropolitan Division, their future appears anchored by a teenager just getting started.