Current Season
GP
58
Goals
16
Assists
23
Points
39
+/-
+9
S%
11.7%
Career Stats
Contract
Cap Hit
$975K
Total Value
$2.92M
Expires
3 yrs · 2027-2028
Status
Then RFA
via PuckPedia
Recent Stories
Matthew Schaefer owns the Calder conversation at 18, turning heads with game-winners like his OT dagger against his hometown Leafs and even Olympic buzz for Canada. Ivan Demidov leads rookies in scoring for the Habs, while Beckett Sennecke fits seamlessly into Anaheim's surprising contender core alongside Hart hopeful Leo Carlsson.
New York Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer plans to soak up the 2026 Winter Olympics from the stands, hoping it's his final shot as a spectator. The blue-liner, who's grinded through minor injuries and lineup battles, shifts focus to Long Island's playoff charge amid Olympic distractions. His front-row view underscores the NHL's growing tug-of-war with international duty.
Islanders prospect Matthew Schaefer opts for a feel-good gig during the Olympic pause that screams old-school hockey values amid the global spotlight. While stars chase gold in Italy, this young blueliner chooses community over spotlight, a move that endears him to the Isles' development staff who've tracked his rise closely. Such off-ice choices often signal the intangibles that separate NHL grinders from the pack.
Islanders rookie Matthew Schaefer, the 18-year-old No. 1 pick who's already logging top-pair minutes and leading Calder chatter, kicks back during the Olympic break by cheering Team Canada from afar. He watched his teammate Bo Horvat suit up for the Maple Leafs in Milan-Cortina, a bittersweet thrill after coming so close to joining them himself as the youngest pro ever.
Chris Pronger, the Hall of Famer who's seen every kind of blueliner this league throws at you, isn't holding back on Team Canada's decision to leave Matthew Schaefer off the Olympic roster. The Islanders' 18-year-old phenom, who's lighting up score sheets with 25 points in 41 games while logging more ice time than any rookie, drew rare praise from GM Doug Armstrong himself for his maturity and skill.
New York Islanders' No. 1 draft choice Matthew Schaefer reveals the story behind selecting jersey No. 48, a number loaded with personal meaning for the young blueliner. This choice signals his mindset as he breaks into the NHL system, blending homage with ambition. For a top prospect, the right digits set the tone from day one in the pros.