Matthew Schaefer: The Unpacking of the Islanders' Elite Skating Phenom

New York Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer has emerged as one of the NHL's premier skaters, a skill that formed the bedrock of his Calder Trophy-winning rookie season. While Schaefer himself struggles to articulate the precise mechanics behind his speed, he attributes it to a fundamental enjoyment of going fast.

"I like to go fast," Schaefer told The Post. "That's what I really like to do. I like to go fast."

His skating prowess has been a defining characteristic of his game, allowing him to reach speeds exceeding 23 miles per hour. This innate ability to generate and maintain high speeds has quickly made him a standout player in the league.

Schaefer's journey with skating began at the age of 3, with his father, Todd, and brother, Johnny, playing significant roles in his development. His childhood spent roller-blading around Stony Creek, Ontario, and a naturally bow-legged physique are factors he acknowledges, but the core of his exceptional skating remains somewhat of a mystery even to him.

"There's not much reason for him to have ever thought about it," the article notes, highlighting Schaefer's instinctual approach to his greatest asset. The entire league has taken notice of his speed, which was on full display throughout his impressive rookie campaign.