NY Islanders rookie Matthew Schaefer achieves another first without even playing

Mar 1, 2026; Elmont, New York, USA; New York Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer (48) celebrates with the crowd after the victory over the Florida Panthers during the third period at UBS Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Schneidler-Imagn Images | Dennis Schneidler-Imagn ImagesBelieve it or not, New York Islanders rookie defenseman Matthew Schaefer accomplished another first on Monday — and he wasn’t even playing.

The NHL named the 18-year-old Islanders defenseman its First Star of the Week after a ridiculous three-game stretch that somehow managed to raise the bar again. Five points. Plus-5. Four goals to lead the league since play resumed. Just your average week for the kid rewriting the…