Mike Sullivan, head coach of the New York Rangers, has expressed high regard for rookie defenseman Matthew Schaefer, highlighting his impressive skills and potential. Having coached future Hall of Famers like Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin during his tenure in Pittsburgh, Sullivan is well-versed in recognizing talent in the NHL.
Prior to the second matchup of the season between the Rangers and the Islanders, Sullivan remarked, “I think he”s a really exciting player to watch. I can imagine he”s only going to get better. He”s an emerging star.” He emphasized Schaefer”s skating ability, stating, “He”s a one-man breakout. He”s very active in the rush, but he also has the ability to catch the attack when he gets involved in the rush, which is a great asset, a great attribute to have as a defenseman.”
At just 18 years old, Schaefer is currently a frontrunner for the Calder Trophy, awarded to the NHL”s top rookie. He has already scored nine goals and accumulated 24 points in his first 37 professional games, including five power-play goals. However, he faced some challenges recently, having scored only once in his last 12 games leading up to the league”s Christmas break.
Sullivan also noted Schaefer”s poise on the ice, stating, “I just think that speaks to his intelligence as a player.” He drew an analogy to football, explaining, “Sometimes the best quarterbacks throw the ball in the stands.” Sullivan believes that defensemen must make smart choices, especially in critical areas of the rink, and he sees Schaefer excelling in this regard.
Additionally, Braden Schneider, filling in for the injured Adam Fox, has been impressed with Schaefer”s performance. Schneider commented on Schaefer”s maturity, noting, “Obviously the speed jumps out at you and his ability to move the puck, but you can see the maturity that he has, especially with all of the responsibility they are throwing at him right away.” He acknowledged that handling such responsibilities at Schaefer”s age is no small feat, adding, “To see what he”s been doing at 18 has been really special.”
As the season progresses, both Sullivan and Schneider believe that Schaefer”s contributions will be crucial for the Islanders, and they are excited to see how his career unfolds in the NHL.
