New York Islanders phenom Matthew Schaefer became the fourth defenseman in NHL history to notch 20 goals in their rookie season by scoring Sunday against the Florida Panthers.
Schaefer beat Sergei Bobrovsky five-hole for his second of the game.
MATTHEW SCHAEFER DOUBLES DOWN ‼️
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) March 2, 2026
THE 18-YEAR-OLD NETS HIS 20TH OF THE SEASON 🔥 pic.twitter.com/XyYTCWinRc
Schaefer is just four goals away from setting the single-season record for goals by a rookie defenseman. The Islanders have 21 games remaining in their season.
| Player | Season | Team | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brian Leetch | 1988-89 | Rangers | 23 |
| Barry Beck | 1977-78 | Rockies | 22 |
| Dion Phaneuf | 2005-06 | Flames | 20 |
| Matthew Schaefer | 2025-26 | Islanders | 20 |
Schaefer is the first blue-liner to ever win the rookie race to 20 goals in his respective season. He already set the NHL record for most goals by an 18-year-old defenseman when he notched his 18th of the campaign Thursday against the Montreal Canadiens.
The 2025 No. 1 pick also added an assist in the 5-4 victory, bringing his point total to 44 in 61 games this season.
