Trending Now - Matthew Schaefer Dominates Calder Trophy Race, Wins Unanimously

WHO:

Fox News - Matthew Schaefer, rookie defenseman for the New York Islanders

NHL.com - Todd and Johnathan Schaefer, Matthew's father and brother

WHAT:

Sportskeeda - Matthew Schaefer won the Calder Trophy unanimously.

Fox News - Schaefer had an impressive debut season with 59 points.

NHL.com - Schaefer led all first-year players in time on ice per game (24:41), tied for the lead in goals (23), and was third in points (59).

NHL.com - Among rookie defensemen, Schaefer ranked first in power-play goals (eight), power-play points (18), overtime goals (two), game-winning goals (four), shots on goal (222), and was second in plus/minus (plus-13).

WHERE:

NHL.com - The trophy was presented to Schaefer on the set of ‘GMA3’ in New York.

WHEN:

NHL.com - Schaefer was the No. 1 pick by the Islanders at the 2025 NHL Draft.

WHY:

NHL.com - Schaefer's father expressed pride in his son's journey from being a fan to winning the Calder Trophy, highlighting the unexpected success of his rookie season.

HOW:

NHL.com - Schaefer played all 82 games during the season, showcasing his durability and performance throughout the year.

(UPDATED May 13, 2026 23:20 UTC)

Matthew Schaefer, a rookie defenseman for the New York Islanders, has made headlines by winning the Calder Trophy unanimously after an impressive debut season where he scored 59 points. The trophy was presented to Schaefer on the set of ‘GMA3’ in New York, with his father and brother, Todd and Johnathan Schaefer, proudly supporting him. Schaefer not only led all first-year players in time on ice per game but also ranked first among rookie defensemen in several key categories, including power-play goals and game-winning goals.