NEW YORK - New York Islanders defenceman Matthew Schaefer was named the NHL's rookie of the month for October on Saturday.

Schaefer ranked third among all rookies in points with three goals and five assists in 11 games.

The 18-year-old from Hamilton was selected first overall by the Islanders in this year's draft.

Only one 18-year-old defenceman earned more points in his first 11 games of his NHL career. Phil Housley had 11 in 1982-83 with the Buffalo Sabres.

Schaefer was chosen top rookie in the first month of this NHL season ahead of Montreal Canadiens teammates Jakub Dobes, Ivan Demidov and Oliver Kapanen; Detroit Red Wings centre Emmitt Finnie; Minnesota Wild defenceman Zeev Buium and St. Louis Blues winger Jimmy Snuggerud.

At 18 years, 34 days, Schaefer was the youngest player to

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