2025 Stats
G
23
A
36
PP Pts
18
+/-
13
PIM
38
2026 Projections
2026 Fantasy Outlook
Few people could have foreseen Schaefer not only establishing himself as an NHLer but dominating as an 18-year-old defenseman. He produced 23 goals, 36 assists, 18 power-play points, 222 shots on net, 111 blocked shots and a plus-13 rating over all 82 games after being selected first overall in 2025. His campaign ended with the Calder Trophy as the Rookie of the Year. He's an immediate franchise cornerstone for both the Islanders and any fantasy manager lucky enough to snag him in dynasty formats. Schaefer has the potential to cement himself as a consistent Norris Trophy contender in the coming years, reflecting a greater trend of increased offense among defensemen. For 2026-27, he should exceed the 60-point mark and may make some gains in the physical categories while seeing significant ice time in all situations. Read Past Outlooks
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Overall
Signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Islanders in August of 2025.
Ties all-time rookie goal leader
Schaefer scored a goal Thursday in a 5-3 win over Toronto on Thursday.
ANALYSIS
Schaefer's dominant season continues. The goal is No. 23, which ties him with Brian Leetch (1988-89) as the all-time NHL rookie defenseman goal leader, and he's only 18 years old. Schaefer has 59 points, 108 blocks, 209 shots and a plus-16 rating. He already sits in a tie with Jakob Chychrun for 11th overall in scoring from the blue line.
Schaefer's dominant season continues. The goal is No. 23, which ties him with Brian Leetch (1988-89) as the all-time NHL rookie defenseman goal leader, and he's only 18 years old. Schaefer has 59 points, 108 blocks, 209 shots and a plus-16 rating. He already sits in a tie with Jakob Chychrun for 11th overall in scoring from the blue line.
NHL Stats
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2025 NHL Game Log
2025
2025 NHL Game Log
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2025–26 Time On Ice Stats
- Average Time On Ice: 24:41
- Average Power Play TOI: 3:19
- Average Short-Handed TOI: 1:06
Ice Time
Power Play
Short-Handed
2025–26
24:41
3:19
1:06
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2025 Fantasy Outlook
The Islanders traded Noah Dobson to Montreal, but on the same day, New York used the No. 1 overall pick on Schaefer, who they hope will become his replacement. The youngster is a fantastic skater who can intelligently utilize that strength to play a strong two-way game. The defenseman missed most of 2024-25 due to a combination of a broken collarbone and mononucleosis, but he impressed when healthy, recording seven goals and 22 points across 17 regular-season outings with OHL Erie. With Dobson gone, Schaefer might enter 2025-26 as part of the Islanders' top four and play regularly with the man advantage. A 40-plus point rookie campaign isn't out of the question, but there is an element of risk when it comes to counting on a teenage defenseman to jump seamlessly from the junior level to the NHL, especially after missing most of his draft year.
More Fantasy News
Two more helpers Saturday
Schaefer notched two assists, one on the power play, in Saturday's 5-2 win over Florida.
ANALYSIS
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Drives offense with two-point night
Schaefer notched two assists in Thursday's 2-1 win over the Stars.
ANALYSIS
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Keeps marching toward history
Schaefer scored a power-play goal on three shots, blocked two shots and went minus-2 in Saturday's 7-3 loss to the Canadiens.
ANALYSIS
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In exclusive company
Schaefer scored his 21st goal of the season in Thursday's 3-2 loss to the Senators.
ANALYSIS
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Ten points in last 10 games
Schaefer put up a power-play assist in Tuesday's 3-1 win over the Maple Leafs.
ANALYSIS
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Latest Fantasy Rumors
Might go to Worlds
Schaefer is considering going to the 2026 IIHF World Championship, Andrew Gross of Newsday reports Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
Schaefer played in all 82 games as a rookie this season, recording 23 goals and 36 assists, including 18 power-play points. It's possible the Isles would prefer the rookie phenom take some time to rest this summer, but he should be a lock for Team Canada if he is willing to play.
Schaefer played in all 82 games as a rookie this season, recording 23 goals and 36 assists, including 18 power-play points. It's possible the Isles would prefer the rookie phenom take some time to rest this summer, but he should be a lock for Team Canada if he is willing to play.