Matthew Schaefer’s development could shift the Islanders' entire season

The New York Islanders 2025-26 season will hinge on Matthew Schaefer's development, at least to a fine degree. Will it make or break them?

New York Islanders Development Camp | Bruce Bennett/GettyImages Matthew Schaefer may be the ultimate wild card for the New York Islanders heading into 2025-26. Ask anyone following the Isles, and you'll get a slew of different opinions on Schaefer, ranging from how there's a chance he could return to juniors to him seeing full-time minutes with ample ice time.

For me, it's simple: I'd play Schaefer for as long as he's shown me that he deserves to play. This means if I have my doubts about him, I'd send him back to Erie. Or, if I feel like he can handle…