Schaefer etched his name in Islanders history, matching a rookie defenseman scoring record. His two assists fueled a crucial victory, highlighting his impact.
ELMONT, NY -- New York Islanders rookie defenseman Matthew Schaefer recorded two assists in their 5-2 win over the Florida Panthers on Saturday afternoon to reach the 56-point mark through 74 games.
That number is meaningful as it tied Stefan Persson (1977-78) for the most points by a rookie defenseman in franchise history.
Schaefer's first assist came on Brayden Schenn's 2-2 tying tally at 12:09 of the second period after he hit Calum Ritchie with a stretch pass:
His second assist was the primary ne on Simon Holmstrom's power-play goal that put the Islanders in front 3-2 at 14:52 of the second period.
Saturday marked Schaefer's 12th multi-point game of the season. The Islanders are 10-1-1 in those games.