Matthew Schaefer Named Islanders Alternate Captain Ahead of Season Opener

Calder Trophy winner Matthew Schaefer enters his second NHL season as an alternate captain for the New York Islanders in their season opener against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Schaefer was bestowed the leadership role earlier this week following a standout rookie campaign where he tied the league's rookie record for goals by a defenseman with 23 tallies. The 2025 first-overall pick will showcase his skills on defense as the Islanders start their 84-game regular season slate under coach Peter DeBoer.