Islanders rookie credits vets for his development

New York Islanders rookie Matthew Schaefer credits team veterans for his growth into the budding star he has become.

Mar 4, 2026; Anaheim, California, USA; New York Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer (48) warms up before the game against the Anaheim Ducks at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images | Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn ImagesNew York Islanders star rookie Matthew Schaefer has said all the right things in his tenure with the club this season. But it hasn’t been lip service. Schaefer has demonstrated a superior level of maturity not commonly seen in players 10 years his senior.

That said, Schaefer has taken it upon himself to give credit where it’s due. In particular, the…