Matthew Schaefer has taken the NHL by storm and is already considered the franchise player for the New York Islanders. Now, Wayne Gretzky has shared his honest view on Schaefer’s impact on the Islanders.
Matthew Schaefer has quickly established himself as one of the best young players in the NHL. So far this season, the rookie has recorded 20 goals and 27 assists in 65 games.
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Matthew Schaefer NHL records
On March 1, Schaefer became the fastest rookie defenseman in NHL history to register 20 goals in a season. Before the Olympics, many insiders and players believed Schaefer deserved a spot on Team Canada’s roster, but he was ultimately left off the team.
As the first overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, Schaefer has become the new face of the Islanders, and his presence is already attracting other star players. On March 6, St. Louis Blues captain Brayden Schenn joined the Islanders in exchange for Jonathan Drouin, goaltending prospect Marcus Gidlof, and draft picks.
Wayne Gretzky’s honest words
During NHL on TNT on Tuesday, the studio linked up with Wayne Gretzky to discuss the trade and the star power Matthew Schaefer has brought to the Islanders. They also talked about how Schaefer might already be among the best defensemen in the league.
“I have to say, Cale Makar and Quinn Hughes are so good. Those two guys are probably a notch above everyone else. They’ve both been tremendous NHL players. And you guys are right — you can’t pick him above those guys right now for the Norris,” Gretzky said.
Gretzky then pointed out another trophy Schaefer could be in the conversation for.
“But I’m sitting here thinking, my goodness — would this team be where they are right now without him? What about winning the MVP in the league? That’s how good this kid has been. I’m not saying he’s going to win it. I’m just saying that’s the conversation he should be in. Because I’m not sure that team would be where they are right now without him. And that’s the basis of the MVP trophy, right? Who’s the most valuable player to your team in the league? Right now, it’s hard to say he’s not the most important player to the New York Islanders,” Gretzky said.
You can watch the interview below.
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