Matthew Schaefer passes Bobby Orr in this impressive statistic

Matthew Schaefer has had many memorable moments throughout his brief NHL career. Whether it's breaking several rookie records or winning the 2025-26 Calder Trophy, there's been plenty to celebrate. But on Sunday, October 25th, Schaefer reached a new milestone. During the Isles' 6-3 loss to the Stars, Schaefer found the back of the net for his 25th career goal. This moves him past Bobby Orr for the second-most goals scored by a teenager in NHL history.

Moving up this list would be impressive in its own right. To be among some of the best teenagers to ever lace up the skates is an honor all its own. But when you are passing legends like Orr, it makes it even more special. These are players that are talked about like Greek Gods in NHL circles. It's an honor to even be in the same conversations as these players. But how will moving up this list affect his reputation and legacy around the league?

Where does Matthew Schaefer rank among young players

Since entering the league last season, Schaefer has been one of the Islanders' most productive players. Over his 93 games in the league, he has logged 25 goals and 44 assists for 69 points. He has also blocked 119 shots, 45 hits, and forced 45 takeaways. He was a large reason the Islanders were competitive for most of last season, and they are only two points back of the last wild-card spot this season. They are well ahead of schedule in terms of their rebuild.

Changing the trajectory of a franchise is impressive for any player to do. But for a rookie to do it, makes him a legend. Normally, it takes the rookie a year or two to get used to the speed and physicality of the NHL game. But Schaefer has defied that idea and has surpassed every expectation that was placed on him. That made him one of the league's best young players. Many see him as a rising star and someone who will be one of the best players in the league.

But when you add passing Orr, your status among the league sky rockets. It goes from him being someone that could be a future star, into one of today's game. Someone that is not only the face of the Islanders, but could be a face of the league. He is quickly rising the ranks and could be a top-three defenseman in today's game. If he is able to keep moving up that list and break the rookie goal record, he will be a name that every hockey fan knows.

Islanders fans should continue to appreciate the greatest that Schaefer has shown in his brief career. It is the start of something special.

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