"It was only Schaefer's second professional game, but his impact was undeniable. The Islanders' 2025 first-overall draft pick skated with confidence and poise far beyond his age, logging 26:04 ice time while leading the Islanders with eight shots on goal. His big moment came early in the third period. During a scramble in front of the Capitals' net, Schaefer drove hard to the crease and knocked a loose puck past goaltender Logan Thompson to bring the Islanders within one."
"The play was briefly reviewed for a possible hand pass but ultimately upheld, sending the UBS Arena crowd back into its frenzy as fans began chanting Matthew Schaefer across the lower bowl. It's crazy I love these fans, Schaefer said after the game, smiling as he reflected on the roar of the building. Getting your name chanted out there it feels like home for sure."
"He's so good, he was our best player out there tonight, Roy said. If I'm a fan, I'll pay to watch him play. There's no doubt about that. Roy added that Schaefer has earned the coaching staff's trust through consistent play and maturity. He forced me to play him. He forced us to play him. So we're going to give it to him."
The UBS Arena crowd erupted as Matthew Schaefer scored the first goal of his NHL career in the Islanders' 4-2 loss to the Washington Capitals. The 18-year-old rookie, the Islanders' 2025 first-overall draft pick, played just his second professional game and logged 26:04 of ice time while leading the team with eight shots on goal. His goal came early in the third period when he drove to the crease during a scramble and knocked a loose puck past Logan Thompson; the play was briefly reviewed for a possible hand pass but was upheld. Head coach Patrick Roy praised Schaefer's maturity, consistency and readiness.
Read at www.amny.com
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