Matthew Schaefer must start getting more assertive with opponents

Matthew Schaefer has exceeded just about everyone's wildest expectations so far in 2025-26. He's fourth on the team in points through the New York Islanders' first 16 games, with 12 points and five goals.

Schaefer has also played sound defense, committing eight takeaways, blocking 18 shots, and contributing 22:13 of average total ice time. That kind of play from a kid in their age-18 season will always put a target on their back, and it's something we have seen happen plenty of times to Schaefer. 

The initial instinct is to acquire a player to protect Schaefer, who took a brutal hit recently from Nikita Zadorov against the Boston Bruins. That incident sparked a brawl between the Islanders and the Bruins, raising questions about whether the Isles needed to do more to keep the brewing face of their franchise protected.

But if Schaefer wants this madness to stop or make opponents think twice about going after him, then he needs to stand up to those hard-hitting veterans when they decide to slam him into the boards. If Schaefer turns the tables and hits back at those who decide to target him, that will send a message to the rest of the league.

Matthew Schaefer is more than capable of getting assertive and protecting himself

Matthew Schaefer may be 18, but he's by no means small. With a 6'2, 186 lbs frame, Schaefer boasts more size than most young hockey players, many of whom are still growing into their respective frames. Schaefer may not be finished growing, but he has an imposing enough build to hold his own without the need for veterans to step in and get into scuffles for him. 

Getting more aggressive with opponents right now will also signal to them that he's refusing to let anyone rattle him or throw him off his game. As the season progresses and the hits keep coming, it can take a toll on the body and make a player more hesitant, and that can lead to slumps in performance.

Matthew Schaefer is too important and productive to let opponents keep targeting him

With Schaefer taking a comfortable lead over all Islanders' defensemen in points, and Ryan Pulock trailing him with just seven assists in 16 games, the Isles can't afford for Schaefer to wear down. If he stands up and lets opponents know he'll snap back at them if they try to land a hard body check, chances are, he won't wear down and hesitate while he's on the ice, thinking more of protecting himself against an incoming hit. 

Finally, getting assertive now will also force opponents to approach Schaefer differently. At that point, they will know they can't intimidate him, nor could they use ultra-physical play to try and throw him off his game. If they try to, he will respond. That would put Schaefer in the driver's seat, and you would likely see even more strong performances as the season progresses.

Matthew Schaefer will have opponents keep targeting him as he continues what has already been a stellar rookie season. While the Islanders can keep stepping up to protect him, it also sends a signal that he can't be assertive and stand up for himself, which will only entice opponents to keep coming at him. He must take matters into his own hands, and if he does, he will keep thriving and will force opponents to come up with other ways to try and get the best of him.