Islanders Surge with Rookie Sensation Schaefer

0:00Welcome to NHL News Today. Two minutes of updates that matter to NHL fans, hit subscribe and stay connected. The New York Islanders are surging this season, tied with the Pittsburgh Penguins for second in the Metropolitan Division at 38 wins, 24 losses and 5 overtime losses. After missing the playoffs last year, they snagged the top pick in the 2025 draft and chose 18-year-old defenseman Matthew. Shafer, from Hamilton, Ontario, he's already a game-changer with his speed and scoring. Shafer leads rookies and points with 48, including 20 goals over 67 games, putting him in the top spot for Rookie of the Year. The team also added forward Callan Richie, a 21-year-old with solid production and limited action. Meanwhile, veteran Braden Shin joined via trade from St. Louis and loves the fresh energy. Players rave about the locker-room buzz. Players like Bo Horvath say Shafer's constant smile keeps everyone young and loose, while longtime Islanders like Matthew Bersall, nearing his six, hundredth game all.

1:05With New York, call it one of the best groups he's seen. That mix of vets and new blood has rebuilt the confidence after tough years. On the ice, the Islanders own overtime with 10 wins and no losses, matching the league's best. They've pulled off 18 comebacks, including eight, when trailing in the third period, showing real grit and belief in each other. Fans are packing UBS Arena for the 15th straight sellout, with Columbus coming Sunday and Toronto up Tuesday for Shafer's first game there. The excitement is back, and playoffs look solid. This episode is proudly sponsored by our partner, headphones in a pillow, simple idea, surprisingly addictive, S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com