New York Islanders rookie defenseman Matthew Schaefer has been named the NHL’s top newcomer for the month of October. In his first 11 games, Schaefer tallied three goals and five assists, ranking him third among all rookies in points.
Additionally, Jack Eichel of the Vegas Golden Knights was recognized as the league’s first star for the month, with Mark Scheifele of the Winnipeg Jets as the second star, and Jakub Dobes of the Montreal Canadiens as the third star.
Schaefer, an 18-year-old from Hamilton, was the Islanders’ top pick in this year’s draft, making him the youngest player to record a point in his NHL debut at just 18 years and 34 days old. He also set a record as the youngest defenseman to score his first goal since Ross Johnstone more than 80 years ago.
Eichel, aged 29, led the NHL in October with eight goals and 11 assists, following his recent contract extension with Vegas. Scheifele, at 32 years old, became Winnipeg’s all-time scoring leader with nine goals in his first 11 games. Dobes, a 24-year-old goalie, boasted a perfect 6-0-0 record in October with impressive stats for the Canadiens.