In an extraordinary debut season, 18-year-old Matthew Schaefer of the New York Islanders is rapidly becoming one of the most talked-about young talents in the National Hockey League. The rookie defenseman is making an immediate impact, showcasing a rare blend of speed, skill, and offensive intelligence that has the hockey world buzzing.
Record-Breaking Start and Elite Comparisons
The most striking aspect of Schaefer's early career is the immediate comparison to Colorado Avalanche star Cale Makar, a generational talent known for his offensive production and two-way play. Through the first 18 games of the 2025 NHL season, Schaefer's statistics make this comparison more than just hype.
He has recorded an impressive 7 goals and 15 points, a tally that leads all rookies and places him among the top-scoring defensemen in the entire league. His offensive prowess is further highlighted by his 4 power-play goals and 54 shots on goal, both of which lead his rookie class. When placed side-by-side with Makar's numbers over a similar span this season—6 goals, 24 points, and 7 power-play points—Schaefer's scoring efficiency becomes undeniable for a player of his age and experience.
Advanced Metrics Reveal Superstar Potential
Beyond traditional stats, Schaefer's advanced metrics are what truly solidify his elite potential. He is a force of nature on the ice, leading all NHL defensemen with 65 skating bursts over 20 mph, significantly outpacing Makar's 44. The two are tied for third among defensemen in bursts exceeding 22 mph.
His raw speed is equally phenomenal, ranking in the 96th percentile for max skating speed at 22.93 mph, which is remarkably close to Makar's top speed of 23.86 mph. These figures are not just for show; they translate directly into his ability to consistently join offensive rushes and create high-danger scoring chances from prime areas on the ice.
Historic Achievements and a Bright Future
Schaefer's poise and readiness for the professional level are already etched in the NHL record books. He has become the youngest player ever to score a regular-season overtime goal and the youngest defenseman to record a multi-goal game. These are not just statistical footnotes; they are testaments to his clutch performance under pressure.
While it is still early in his career, the combination of his explosive skating, proven scoring touch, and elite-level advanced analytics points to a phenomenally high ceiling. If Matthew Schaefer maintains this trajectory, he is well on his way to becoming the cornerstone defenseman for the New York Islanders and a generational talent in the mold of Cale Makar.
