Matthew Schaefer

WATCH: Matthew Schaefer sets new record with his 18th goal of the season

Published

February 26, 2026

David Kirouac -- IMAGN IMAGES

New York Islanders’ defenseman Matthew Schaefer scored his 18th goal of the season, the most ever for an 18-year-old defenseman.

MATTHEW SCHAEFER HAS SET THE RECORD FOR MOST GOALS BY AN 18 YEAR OLD DEFENSEMAN!!!! 🚨🔥

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18 GOALS IN JUST 59 GAMES 😱 pic.twitter.com/8r90k6GcCt

— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) February 27, 2026

Schaefer was selected as the first overall pick in the 2025 draft by the Islanders and has lived up to the hype. So far this season, he has 18 goals and 23 assists in 59 games. He is currently second on the team in goals and assists.

Schaefer has played a huge part in the Islanders’ revival. The team finished sixth in the metro in the 2024-25 season and missed the playoffs for the first time since the 2021-22 season. The Islanders are currently third in the Metro with 67 points, two points above the Washington Capitals.

About the Author Published Feb 26, 2026

CAMERON JOYCE

Cameron Joyce is an NCAAF, NFL, NHL, and MLB beat writer for Ball Exclusives. Cameron also previously worked at The University of Alabama's newspaper, "The Crimson White," covering volleyball and baseball.