The New York Islanders headed into the Olympic break after a solid stretch of games that showed clear improvement from earlier in the season. The group has found a better balance between experienced leaders and young players learning larger roles. Their defensive approach is shaping how they win games and manage tough matchups.
That consistent team play helped set up a meaningful franchise milestone just before the schedule paused.
Matthew Schaefer’s Rookie Impact Grows as Islanders Clinch Historic Rivalry Sweep and Build Playoff Push
The Islanders earned a 3-1 win over the New Jersey Devils on Thursday at Prudential Center, finishing their schedule before the Olympic break on a strong note. Casey Cizikas opened the scoring in the second period, while Bo Horvat scored the go-ahead goal late in the third and added an assist.
Mathew Barzal sealed the game with an empty-net goal, extending his goal streak to four games, and Ilya Sorokin made 23 saves to secure the victory.
The win improved New York’s record to 32-21-5 and marked their fifth victory in the last seven games.
The victory also carried historical importance for the organization. Islanders reporter Stefen Rosner shared on X, “For the first time in franchise history, #Isles have swept the #NYR & #NJDevils in the same season.”
The achievement showed how well New York handled division matchups while maintaining a strong defensive structure throughout the season.
Rookie defenseman Matthew Schaefer continues to play an important role in the Islanders’ lineup. Selected first overall in the 2025 NHL Draft, the 18-year-old has handled major minutes while contributing at both ends of the ice.
Through 57 games, he has recorded 16 goals and 23 assists for 39 points with a plus-nine rating. He averages over 24 minutes per game and contributes on the power play with six goals and eight assists while taking on tough matchups.
Islanders coach Patrick Roy praised Schaefer’s offensive instincts and mindset during a conversation with the NHL’s Mike G. Morreale. “He’s got a pretty good, quick release,” Roy said. “It reminds me of the wrister by Ray Bourque… now Schaefer, he seems to do the same thing.”
Roy also highlighted the rookie’s team-first approach, adding, “I won’t ever get tired of talking about ‘Schaef’… He’s a team guy, and when he makes a mistake, (goalies) Ilya Sorokin or David Rittich are there for him.”
READ MORE: Matthew Schaefer All But Guaranteed to Make NY Islanders History in 2026
Although Schaefer missed Canada’s Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic roster, playing in a future Winter Olympics remains one of his goals.
The Islanders currently sit third in the Metropolitan Division with 69 points, allowing 2.71 goals per game while scoring 2.84.
The Islanders will return to action after the Olympic break on Feb. 26 against the Montreal Canadiens at 7 p.m. ET.
With strong defense, reliable goaltending, and contributions from young players like Schaefer, New York continues to improve as a team. They missed the playoffs last year and could make it this year if they continue to perform at the same level.
