The New York Islanders have undeniably been electrified in the 2025-26 NHL season by the play of rookie defenseman Matthew Schaefer. Selected first overall at the 2025 NHL Draft, Schaefer has immediately provided a huge impact on the ice for the Isles, who are certainly not having any regrets on their decision to go with Schaefer.

“He's changed our team by being here,” Darche said of Schaefer, per Dan Rosen of NHL.com.

Aside from his effectiveness on the ice, Schaefer is also gaining recognition for his attitude off of it. Article Continues Below

“The main thing too, outside of the player, he's an outstanding young man,” Darche continued. “Our players absolutely love him because he's very humble with all the attention and the success he's getting. I've played with players they migh

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