Schaefer Tops NHL’s 3 Stars of the Week
New York Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer has been named the first star of the NHL’s Three Stars of the Week, presented by GEICO, for the week ending March 1. Schaefer’s outstanding performance has solidified his position as one of the league’s most promising players.
Schaefer’s Remarkable Week
In a span of three games, Schaefer scored a remarkable four goals, contributing significantly to his team’s performance. His efforts helped the Islanders achieve a notable milestone, becoming the tenth team in NHL history to secure three consecutive multi-goal comeback victories.
Key Highlights
- First Star: Matthew Schaefer, Defenseman, New York Islanders
- Goals Scored: 4 goals in 3 games
- Team Performance: Islanders achieved a record of 35-21-5, totaling 75 points
On February 26, during a match against the Montreal Canadiens, Schaefer scored twice within 55 seconds, pushing his season total to 18 goals. This achievement made him the leading 18-year-old defenseman in NHL history for total goals, surpassing Phil Housley.
Historic Achievements
Later in the week, Schaefer logged a team-high ice time of 25:31 against the Columbus Blue Jackets and contributed to another comeback win. He capped off the week with a career-first three-point game (2 goals, 1 assist) in a victory against the Florida Panthers on March 1.
Unique Milestones
Schaefer’s performance marks a significant moment in NHL history. He became the first rookie defenseman to reach 20 goals in a season. Only three other rookie blueliners have managed to achieve similar scoring milestones in complete seasons:
- Brian Leetch: 23 goals (1988-89, NYR)
- Barry Beck: 22 goals (1977-78, CLR)
- Dion Phaneuf: 20 goals (2005-06, CGY)
Top Rookie Stats
Schaefer currently leads all rookie skaters in several critical areas:
| Category | Rank | Stat |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | 1st | 20 |
| Total Time on Ice | 1st | 1,471:35 minutes |
| Average Time on Ice | 1st | 24:07 minutes |
| Power-Play Goals | 1st | 7 |
| Points | 3rd | 44 |
Overall, Matthew Schaefer’s exceptional play not only elevated the New York Islanders but also set him as a prominent figure among NHL rookies this season. His achievements highlight the bright future ahead for the young defenseman.
