The New York Islanders’ next matchup comes with more than just another test in the standings. When they face the Edmonton Oilers, all eyes will be on two players from very different points in their careers: one who’s already been through everything the NHL can throw at him, and another just starting to figure it out.
Connor McDavid knows what that feels like better than anyone. The Oilers’ captain was once the league’s most-hyped teenager himself, stepping into a spotlight that never really turned off. Now, ten years later, he’s offering advice to a new No. 1 pick, Islanders rookie Matthew Schaefer.
Can Connor McDavid’s Words Help Shape Matthew Schaefer’s NHL Journey?
“He’s got a good head on his shoulders, great personality,” McDavid said before Thursday’s game. “I think he’s gonna do just fine. My only advice would be just to enjoy it because it goes really, really fast. It really does.”
That bit of wisdom hits different coming from a player who’s lived both the thrill and the weight of being the face of a franchise. McDavid’s been through MVP seasons, playoff heartbreaks, and everything in between. He knows that hype fades quickly and that a career isn’t defined by one headline or one bad week.
“There’s always another guy coming up, another guy that’s going first overall, another highly touted player,” he added. “Everybody handles it differently.”
Through three games, the 18-year-old Schaefer has looked like he belongs. He’s averaging 23:18 per night and already has three points, not bad for someone barely out of juniors. McDavid said he’s caught a few of his shifts and likes what he sees.
“First off, he’s just a great kid,” McDavid said. “He’s got a great personality, brings a lot of energy, and as a player, obviously seems like he’s off to a great start himself, which is good to see. So yeah, great player and a good kid.”
Islanders head coach Patrick Roy echoed that earlier in the week, calling Schaefer “our best player” in a loss to Winnipeg. The rookie’s first NHL goal, a calm finish on the power play against Washington, drew a loud ovation at UBS Arena and earned plenty of nods from teammates.
Moments like these come full circle for McDavid. He’s been that kid under the microscope, trying to live up to the noise around him. Now, as one of hockey’s most respected leaders, he’s the one passing along lessons that go beyond the game.
When the puck drops at UBS Arena, it won’t just be about who wins the matchup. It’ll be about a quiet exchange between generations, one star reminding the next that no matter how fast it all moves, the joy of the game is what sticks with you.
