Macklin Celebrini or Matthew Schaefer to start NHL franchise? The debate over which young player should lead a new NHL franchise—San Jose Sharks star center Macklin Celebrini or New York Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer—has sparked intense discussion among NHL coaches, scouts, and executives. Over two dozen industry insiders, none currently affiliated with the Sharks or Islanders, were asked to weigh in, with most selecting Celebrini in a closely contested poll. While the outcome was decisive, the divide among experts highlighted the difficulty of choosing between two elite prospects. Celebrini, a 19-year-old center, was chosen by 21 of the 26 respondents, with Schaefer receiving five votes. The margin, however, was narrow, with some insiders suggesting the decision could shift in the future. “After next year, I might switch to Schaefer,” one executive noted, underscoring the close nature of the debate. Coaches and scouts praised both players for their potential, but their assessments reflected differing priorities. Islanders head coach Patrick Roy, a Hockey Hall of Famer, lauded Celebrini’s offensive impact and work ethic. “He creates a lot of offense from nothing, has a great shot, and moves the puck well,” Roy said. “What’s impressive is how hard he works shift after shift.” Sharks coach Ryan Warsofsky, meanwhile, highlighted Schaefer’s leadership and competitiveness. “He’s a competitor who wants to win and drags guys into the fight with his personality,” Warsofsky said. “He’s got real good attributes for leadership.” The consensus among experts was that Celebrini’s combination of offensive skill and intangible qualities made him the more valuable choice. Scouts and executives repeatedly emphasized his leadership, durability, and ability to elevate his team.#matthew_schaefer #new_york_islanders #macklin_celebrini #san_jose_sharks #patrick_roy
NHL Fantasy Hockey Waiver Wire Pickups: Defensemen, March 4 The NHL trade deadline is approaching, and fantasy hockey managers are closely monitoring the waiver wire for potential pickups. On March 4, several defensemen are in focus, with Matthew Schaefer of the New York Islanders standing out as a key player to watch. Schaefer has been dominant this season, and his performance has positioned him as a strong contender for the Calder Trophy, which is awarded to the league’s top rookie. Schaefer’s recent three-point game, including two goals and an assist, marks his first career three-point performance. This achievement has solidified his reputation as a rising star, with his stats over 61 appearances showing 20 goals, 24 assists, 146 shots on goal, 84 blocked shots, and a plus-14 rating. He is just three goals away from breaking Brian Leetch’s rookie record for defensemen, a milestone that highlights his impact on the team. Other notable players on the waiver wire include Dougie Hamilton of the New Jersey Devils. Hamilton has been on a point streak, recording four goals and 15 points in his last 16 games. His recent performance against Florida, where he scored a goal and added an assist, has kept him in the fantasy radar. However, with the Devils out of playoff contention, there is speculation that Hamilton could be traded before the deadline. Fantasy managers are advised to consider these players for their lineups, especially as the trade deadline approaches. The waiver wire offers opportunities to add depth or upgrade key positions, and Schaefer’s consistent play makes him a valuable asset. Managers should also keep an eye on the Devils’ potential moves, as Hamilton’s status could shift quickly.#new_jersey_devils #matthew_schaefer #new_york_islanders #calder_trophy #dougie_hamilton
Matthew Schaefer should be in Hart Trophy mix, Wayne Gretzky says New York Islanders rookie defenseman Matthew Schaefer has made a strong case for inclusion in the Hart Trophy conversation this season. The 18-year-old, who was selected first overall in the 2023 NHL Draft, has delivered a standout performance in his first campaign, earning praise from hockey legends and analysts alike. With 47 points in 65 games, Schaefer ranks second on his team and leads the Islanders in time-on-ice, averaging 24:18 per game. His ability to score goals—20 in total, tied for the most among NHL defensemen—alongside four game-winning goals, highlights his impact on the ice. Wayne Gretzky, widely regarded as the greatest player in hockey history, has publicly endorsed Schaefer’s candidacy for the Hart Trophy, which recognizes the NHL’s most valuable regular-season player. During a recent interview, Gretzky emphasized Schaefer’s critical role in the Islanders’ success, questioning whether the team would have reached its current position without him. “Would this team be where they are right now without him?” Gretzky asked. “What about winning the MVP of the league? That’s how good this kid has been.” While acknowledging Schaefer’s potential, Gretzky noted the player is not yet a lock to win, but he should be a serious contender. Schaefer’s rise to prominence is no surprise to Islanders fans, given the team’s decision to draft him first overall in 2023. Despite limited playing time in his draft year—just 26 games across all competitions—Schaefer’s combination of composure under pressure and elite hockey IQ has already set him apart. His ability to read the game and make plays at a high level has made him a key asset for a team aiming to bounce back from a disappointing 2023 season.#matthew_schaefer #new_york_islanders #wayne_gretzky #hart_trophy #nathan_mackinnon
Trophy Tracker: Schaefer of Islanders top choice for Calder as rookie of year At the three-quarter mark of the 2025-26 NHL season, Matthew Schaefer of the New York Islanders has emerged as the leading contender for the Calder Trophy, awarded to the league’s top rookie. The 18-year-old defenseman, selected first overall in the 2025 NHL Draft, has been a standout performer, earning NHL.com’s top vote in the race for the honor. With 80 points from a 16-person panel, Schaefer leads all rookies in scoring and has already made a significant impact on his team’s success. Schaefer’s rise to prominence began with a historic milestone: becoming the youngest defenseman in NHL history to score 20 goals in a season. His two-goal performance in the Islanders’ 5-4 victory over the Florida Panthers on March 1 marked a pivotal moment, showcasing his ability to contribute offensively while excelling in defensive roles. He leads all rookie skaters in goals and is tied for second among defensemen with Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets. His production has not gone unnoticed by teammates and coaches, who praise his skill and work ethic. Islanders center Bo Horvatsaid, “‘Schaef’ is arguably one of the better defensemen in the League. I can’t put into words or remember watching an 18-year-old do what he’s doing, especially as a defenseman. It’s phenomenal.” Captain Anders Lee added, “He puts himself in positions to score and regardless if he gets a bounce or two, he’s getting the puck through to the net. That’s why he’s been so effective lately.” Schaefer’s impact extends beyond individual stats. His leadership and playmaking have transformed the Islanders’ defensive corps, earning him admiration from fans who have embraced him as a rock star.#columbus_blue_jackets #matthew_schaefer #new_york_islanders #calder_trophy #zach_werenski
