The New York Islanders' Matthew Schaefer and Calder Trophy favor will, in fact, be taking to the UBS Arena ice as the Islanders host the New Jersey Devils on Jan. 6.
Schaefer will avoid missing any game time after having been sidelined for a recent practice session due to illness. The No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, Schaefer has quickly emerged as a key defenseman for the New York franchise. He currently leads all first-year players at his position in goals (12), points (28), power-play points (13), shots on goal (113), penalties drawn (24), blocked shots (58) and average ice time (23:50) in 42 games.
Previously reported as NHL.com's favorite for the Calder Trophy — the coveted accolade given to the top rookie in the league — Schaefer also became the youngest defenseman in NHL history to reach 25 points.
Puck drop is slated for 7:30 p.m. EST between the Islanders and the Devils. The Islanders currently boast a 23-15-4 overall record and have 50 points in the Metropolitan Division.
Matthew Schaefer Hungry For Game Time Even with Battling Illness
Through 42 games played so far this year, Schaefer has logged 12 goals and 16 assists, including 13 power-play points.
NHL.com's Stefan Rosner first made the report that Schaefer will be playing, with Schaefer providing the confirmation himself.
Schaefer will play tonight, per Schaefer.
— Stefen Rosner (@stefen_rosner) January 6, 2026
“I like playing sick now, I guess.”#Isles
At only 18, Schaefer was previously considered for a Team Canada roster spot for the upcoming 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics but ultimately did not make the cut.
Following being selected at No. 1 overall, the rookie made the very most out of training camp and secured a final-roster slot very quickly after hearing his name called in Los Angeles. Schaefer's first point was tallied in his league debut on Oct. 9 at the Pittsburgh Penguins with an assist; he scored his first goal in his second NHL game on Oct. 11.
Schaefer's first point made him the youngest defenseman in league history to record a point in his debut. Schaefer is the latest name in a growing-list of NHL players who are showing that talent is becoming more and more prevalent at younger and younger ages — including but not limited to Macklin Celebrini, Connor Bedard and Gabe Perreault.
The Devils are coming off a 3-1 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes, that featured two own-goals from fellow-young defenseman Luke Hughes. Following the conclusion of play against the Devils, the Islanders will hit the road to take on the Nashville Predators to kick off a seven-game away stretch.
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