Insider believes Schaefer next man up for Team Canada

New York Islanders fans were elated at the inclusion of Bo Horvat on Team Canada’s roster last Wednesday, but simultaneously let down by Matthew Schaefer’s unceremonious snub.

Well, the snub might not be much of a snub after all.

During the post-announcement press conference, Team Canada GM Doug Armstrong revealed that there was a “stand-by list” of players next in line for the team. Since Armstrong declined to get into names on said list, speculation has ramped up as to who might be on it.

According to one notable insider, the Islanders' rookie defenseman is the next man up. During a post-announcement reaction discussion on DFO Rundown, insider David Pagnotta of the Fourth Period claimed that Schaefer is the next man up on D for Team Canada.

Pagnotta stated:

“They've got their reserve list or their standby list; I think Matthew Schaefer is first up on the D side.”

Looking at the eight-man defensive core, Team Canada essentially went with the same group as the 4 Nations Face-Off. That group prioritizes size and toughness. Beyond Cale Makar’s magic hands, the group is a combination of defensively responsible blueliners like Devon Toews and head-clunkers like Colton Parayko. Others like Shea Theodore and Thomas Harley offer a balance of speed, puck movement, and solid defensive play.

However, adding Schaefer would add a completely different dimension to the squad. Schaefer could make opponents rip their hair out in frustration at being unable to contain the 18-year-old phenom.

As for playing time, even if Schaefer made the time, it’s unlikely he’d jump into the lineup right away. Although there could be a case to give him a look during round-robin play. Canada wouldn’t be facing its top opponents until the elimination round. So, that could be an opportunity for the Islanders’ rising star to get some looks.

It’s worth pointing out that Schaefer is an injury away from potentially making the team. As we saw with Bo Horvat earlier this week, anything can happen on the ice. While we don’t wish anyone any ill luck, injuries are a natural part of the game. So, if an unfortunate incident should befall anyone, Schaefer could make the trip to Milano-Cortina in about a month’s time.