Islanders rookie sensation Matthew Schaefer steals the show against Canadiens

New York Islanders' Jean-Gabriel Pageau (44) celebrates his winning goal with teammates Simon Holmstrom (10), Casey Cizikas (53) and Matthew Schaefer (48) during overtime NHL hockey action in Montreal on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Christinne Muschi

MONTREAL — All eyes were on Montreal Canadiens defenceman Noah Dobson as he was set to play against his former team, the New York Islanders.

But Isles teen phenom Matthew Schaefer had stolen that spotlight by the end of New York’s 4-3 overtime win on Thursday.

“I thought we fought so hard,” said Schaefer. “It’s so fun playing with this group of guys. I love coming to the rink when all the boys are going to war. We’re all battling for each other.”

The 18-year-old rookie scored twice in a 55-second span late in the second period to give him 18 goals on the season.

Schaefer’s two goals allowed him to surpass Denis Potvin for the most goals scored by an Islanders rookie defenceman. The Hamilton native also moved past Phil Housley for the most goals by an 18-year-old defenceman in the process.

It’s just the latest accomplishment in what has been an impressive rookie season for the first overall pick in last year’s NHL Entry Draft.

Schaefer became the youngest defenceman in NHL history, at 18 years, 34 days, to have a point in his debut outing and the second-youngest at his position with a goal after scoring in just his second NHL contest.

He would go on to record at least a point in his first six career games, tying Marek Zidlicky of the Nashville Predators for the longest such run by a rookie defenceman in NHL history as he captured Rookie of the Month honours for October.

Schaefer also holds the distinction of being the youngest defenceman to ever score more than once in a game, besting the legendary Bobby Orr.

They are statistics, names and moments in time, however, that don’t seem to impress the teenager.

“I believe you just play the game of hockey because you love it,” said Schaefer. “People bring things up to me, but I really don’t care. If things are meant to be, they’ll happen. For me, I’m just focused on this group of guys in here.

“I love playing with these guys.”

His teammates and head coach also love having Schaefer around for much more than his offensive prowess.

“He’s so mature for 18-years-old,” said Jean-Gabriel Pageau, who scored the overtime winner for the Islanders. “You see him make defensive plays in the right spot and he makes good first passes. He wins his battles.

“Those are little details that go a long way. He makes a difference every night and we’re lucky to have him.”

Islanders head coach Patrick Roy agreed.

“I never doubt his IQ,” said Roy. “The ability to find those shooting lanes, jump in and find those holes or lanes that allow him to bring pucks to the net, it’s impressive. I mean, I won’t lie, it’s fun to see. He’s a big part of our team.”

Pageau also credits Schaefer’s infectious energy with galvanizing an Islanders team currently fighting for a playoff spot.

“He brings a smile in every day,” said Pageau. “He comes in with a passion for hockey and to be better. He wants to be on the ice and have fun. He loves it and that’s contagious. That has brought great energy to our group.”

While Schaefer may not have been all too impressed with his most recent accolades, he was impressed by the raucous atmosphere at Bell Centre in his first-ever game played in the storied arena.

“It was so cool,” said Schaefer. “It was packed. They were doing the wave, they are yelling. It’s fun.”

Roy said Canadiens fans were fortunate to get an early glimpse into what lies ahead for the youngster.

“I’m happy that the Montreal fans were able to see the way he conducts himself,” said Roy. “He’s so talented. I’m convinced he showed fans what kind of player he is.”


This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 27, 2026.

Jordan Stoopler, The Canadian Press