Islanders’ Matthew Schaefer sets NHL record with first point – The Hockey Writers – New York Islanders

It didn’t take long for New York Islanders rookie defenseman Matthew Schaeffer to write his name into the NHL history books. In fact, Schaeffer played just over 17 minutes in his first career NHL game, a record for the 18-year-old.

Just over 12 minutes into the game between the Islanders and Pittsburgh Penguins, Schaefer drove the puck into the Penguins’ zone. He sent a cross-ice pass that found Jonathan Drouin in the high post for a one-timer. Drouin put the ball past Tristan Jarry to tie the game and score his first goal with the Islanders.

As for Schaefer, he scored his first NHL score with a main assist, and thus became the youngest defenseman in NHL history to score in his NHL debut, surpassing Scott Niedermayer, who was only 18 years and 46 days old when he scored his first NHL score in his NHL debut. Schaefer’s mark is now 18 years and 34 days old.

“I found (Drouin) there and it was an easy pass for him and of course he put it in the back of the net,” Schaefer said of his point.

The Islanders took an early 2-1 lead against the Penguins before eventually losing 4-3, but all eyes were on Schafer and how he would make his debut as the No. 1 overall pick.

“I think he’s really good,” head coach Patrick Roy said. “He did a great job at the end. Throwing the puck to the net. I thought he looked comfortable and very confident. So I’m very happy with him.”

While the Islanders will keep a close eye on what they can get out of Schaefer this season, the 18-year-old will continue to find ways to impress both on and off the ice. He currently holds the NHL record despite playing only 17 minutes in the league.