The Cale Makar-Matthew Schaefer Measuring Stick
Former Avalanche forward Jonathan Drouin, who played alongside Cale Makar, sees striking similarities in Islanders rookie Matthew Schaefer.
This story has been updated.
Comparing players — especially young, unproven NHLers — to the stars of the show can sometimes lead to impossible expectations.
When it comes to the New York Islanders’ No. 1 overall pick, Matthew Schaefer, it’s easy to draw parallels to the Colorado Avalanche’s Cale Makar — a dynamic, shifty specimen who plays a complete 200-foot game. Oh, and he just happens to be a two-time Norris Trophy winner (2021-22, 2024-25).
So comparing someone who’s only played in 18 games to someone who’s dominated the league for seven years isn’t exactly fair… yet.
However, when opposing coaches start bringing up Makar’s name unprompted, it reinforces what the eye test already suggests: Schaefer could be the next Makar.
“I just made the comment to management that I’m glad he’s in the East. The kid is dynamic. Boy, can he skate. I’ve seen some young guys step into this league. There’s a guy in Colorado who kind of has that same kind of poise and ability to move. He is dynamic. I saw a video and watched him on TV last year. But to see him live — man, oh man — he can jump. He can skate, and he has some tools. I’m glad he’s in the East.” — Winnipeg Jets HC Scott Arniel
“He’s an incredible young player the way he can skate and glide on top of the ice surface. He doesn’t waste a lot of energy, a little bit Paul Coffey like, in my opinion.” — Detroit Red Wings HC Todd McLellan
If only the Islanders had someone who’d played with Makar before to provide some perspective… oh wait, they do.
I spoke with Jonathan Drouin — Makar’s former Avalanche teammate — about Schaefer and whether those comparisons might actually be warranted: