Nick Leddy was the fleetest Islanders defenseman for several seasons, so skating ability recognizes skating ability. But before he faced Matthew Schaefer on the ice, he met the No. 1 overall pick at a friendly dinner with former teammates.

Leddy’s new squad, the San Jose Sharks, face the Islanders at UBS Arena on Tuesday night, marking the first time Schaefer will play against center Michael Misa , selected second overall this June. The two developed a friendship leading up to the NHL Draft.

It also is the first time Schaefer faces Macklin Celebrini, selected first overall in 2024, and the fourth time in six games he'll skate against a fellow No. 1 following the Penguins’ Sidney Crosby, the Capitals’ Alex Ovechkin and the Oilers’ Connor McDavid.

“You’ve got to be on your toes for wh

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