Trending Now - Schaefer Matches Rookie Defenseman Goal Record in Breakout Season

WHO:

ESPN - Matthew Schaefer of the New York Islanders

ESPN - Hall of Famer Brian Leetch

ESPN - Goaltender Artur Akhtyamov

ESPN - Tony DeAngelo

WHAT:

ESPN - Schaefer tied the NHL record for the most goals by a rookie defenseman with his 23rd goal of the season.

ESPN - Schaefer's goal came at 9:39 of the second period, giving the Islanders a 3-2 lead against the Toronto Maple Leafs.

ESPN - Schaefer's 23 goals are the most by an Islanders rookie since Anders Lee scored 25 in the 2014-15 season.

ESPN - Schaefer ranks second on the Islanders with 59 points.

WHERE:

ESPN - New York, specifically the New York Islanders' home games.

WHEN:

ESPN - The record-tying goal was scored on April 7th, 2026.

ESPN - Schaefer's previous goal was on March 21st, 2026.

WHY:

ESPN - Schaefer's performance is noted as one of the most remarkable rookie seasons for a defenseman in NHL history.

HOW:

ESPN - Schaefer scored by beating goaltender Artur Akhtyamov through the legs following a pass from Tony DeAngelo.

(UPDATED April 10, 2026 04:01 UTC)

Matthew Schaefer of the New York Islanders made headlines on Tuesday by tying the NHL record for the most goals by a rookie defenseman, netting his 23rd goal of the season during a game against the Toronto Maple Leafs. This impressive goal, which came at 9:39 of the second period, gave the Islanders a 3-2 lead and marked the highest total for an Islanders rookie since Anders Lee scored 25 in the 2014-15 season. Schaefer's goal was assisted by Tony DeAngelo and came after he skillfully beat goaltender Artur Akhtyamov through the legs, solidifying his place as one of the standout rookies in NHL history.