From Generational Draft Pick To Islanders Backbone — In No Time

In the biggest game of the season, Matthew Schaefer delivered a game-saving defensive play while logging heavy minutes on his off-side in a 1-0 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Stefen Rosner, David Kolb, and The Elmonters

Mar 23, 2026

∙ Paid

**PHOTO: Dennis DaSilva/New York Islanders**

ELMONT, NY — Trust is everything under head coach Patrick Roy — and it’s something 2025 No. 1 overall pick Matthew Schaefer earned quickly in his rookie season.

On Sunday night, in the New York Islanders’ biggest game of the season, that trust paid off in a big way.

From Generational Draft Pick To Islanders Backbone — In No Time

In the biggest game of the season, Matthew Schaefer delivered a game-saving defensive play while logging heavy minutes on his off-side in a 1-0 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets.

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