The Islanders Signal Their Intentions
The Islanders are making it clear they won’t be overlooked in the league.
During a recent game against the Bruins, defenseman Nikita Zadorov learned this when he took down Matthew Schaefer behind Boston’s goal in the second period of a tense matchup that ended in a 4-3 shootout loss for the Islanders at UBS Arena. Almost immediately, Anders Lee, Anthony Duclair, and Jean-Gabriel Pageau rushed to support Schaefer, attempting to tackle Zadorov.
“We’re like a family,” Schaefer remarked afterward. “I really appreciate their support. It’s comforting to know I can count on them, and they can count on me too.” It’s heartwarming, really.
After everything calmed down, Lee and Duclair received roughing penalties, but the Islanders benefited with a power play, while Zadorov was penalized with a double minor for interference and roughing.
“You know, I felt like the referees had a lot of options,” Islanders coach Patrick Roy commented. “They could call it a cross-check, or roughing, or interference. Honestly, we might have even had a four-minute power play.” There’s a hint of frustration, but also a bit of humor there.
Protecting their 18-year-old rookie, Schaefer, is the priority for the Islanders. It’s remarkable how quickly he became one of the team’s standout players. But with that talent and youth—well, it does make him a target for some rough play.
“He deserves the same protections as any star player,” Roy stated. You can sense the protectiveness in his tone.
How long will it take for Schaefer to earn that status fully? “I hope not too long,” Roy replied, perhaps with a hint of impatience.
Interestingly, the Bruins might not be the only team attempting to intimidate Schaefer. The Islanders have stepped in to defend him whenever there’s a physical altercation, but this instance certainly escalated quickly.
Duclair weighed in, saying, “He’s just like any other star player. We want to slow down their best. That’s the game.” It feels like a very strategic approach.
“With the way Schaefer is playing, it’s only natural for teams to try to knock him off his game. But we’re focused on keeping him on the ice and letting him shine.”
On a separate note, Bo Horvat scored two more goals recently, bringing his season tally to nine. Don Sweeney, assistant GM for Team Canada, seemed to be keeping a close eye on things as the Bruins’ GM.
Horvat impressed in front of Sweeney and Team Canada GM Doug Armstrong during a game in Washington, not to mention his hat trick against Edmonton last month, with Julien Brisebois watching. Quite the spotlight, indeed.
