Schaefer's Calder Triumph: A New NHL Standard

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Matthew Schaefer of the New York Islanders is on track to win the Calder trophy as Rookie

of the Year, following Lane Hudson of the Montreal, Canadians.

This would mark the first time since the NHL's expansion era that defensemen claim the

award in back-to-back seasons.

Both have shown elite offensive skills that rival stars like Kale Megare and Quinn Hughes.

Schaefer, an 18-year-old phenom, has logged over 24 minutes of ice time per game on the top

pairing.

He became the first defenseman his age to score 20 goals in a season.

Unlike Hudson, who benefited from sheltered shifts with 68% offensive zone starts, Schaefer

faces tougher matchups, starting nearly, half his even-string shifts in the defensive zone.

Hudson thrived with the Canadians, who had strong offensive support around him.

His 60 assists tied the Rookie record and boosted their goals per game from 26-17th overall.

The Islanders, however, lack the 60-point score after trading Noah Dobson, putting heavy

pressure on Schaefer to deliver right away in there.

Playoff push

Schaefer stands out on the penalty kill.

A role Hudson never took, and excels at breakouts in zone entries.

Data from tracking sites shows him generating entries at top rates among defensemen.

His all-around usage highlights his defensive responsibilities beyond peer offense.

In wins above replacement, Schaefer ranks third among defensemen at 3.25, far ahead of

Hudson's 1.67 from last year.

While Hudson completed Montreal's attack, Schaefer has become the foundation for New York's

future.

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