NY Islanders rally around Mathew Barzal after fiery defense of Matthew Schaefer

The New York Islanders didn’t hesitate to rally around Mathew Barzal after he was ejected Sunday night in Columbus — because, in their eyes, he was simply doing what team leaders and veterans do: protecting one of their own.

Barzal was tossed from the Islanders’ 4-2 loss to the Blue Jackets after delivering a two-handed slash to Mason Marchment early in the second period, a response that came moments after Marchment appeared to stick out a knee and trip rookie defenseman Matthew Schaefer. It was Marchment’s second questionable moment involving Schaefer in the game, following a first-period roughing penalty for a late hit on the 18-year-old.

Rather than criticize Barzal for crossing the line, the Islanders closed ranks. “I think he was pissed off,” defenseman Adam Pelech said. “He felt it was a dirty play on Schaef. We’re all with Barzy, obviously.”

Coach Patrick Roy echoed that sentiment, making it clear the organization values unity and accountability over optics. “We thought it was a knee on Schaef,” Roy said. “We’re never going to blame a teammate for trying to defend a teammate.”

Barzal’s reaction may draw supplemental discipline — a fine or suspension would not be surprising — but the Islanders appear prepared to accept that consequence. From their perspective, the message matters more than the punishment.

Protecting Schaefer has become a recurring theme this season. The No. 1 overall pick has already seen opponents test his boundaries, and the Islanders have responded consistently whenever that happens. The expectation inside the room is simple: if someone takes liberties with Schaefer, someone will answer.

“You gotta stand up for him,” forward Kyle MacLean said. “He’s a young guy and one of your best players. It’s good to see Barzy do something.”

Schaefer himself appreciated the support. “He’s a great leader,” the rookie said. “That just shows an older guy helping me out there. It means a lot.”

In a league that still values response and respect, the Islanders made it clear: Barzal had Schaefer’s back — and the Islanders have Barzal’s.