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7h ago

Matthew Schaefer Added to Olympic Drug-Testing Protocol, Clearing Eligibility for Team Canada

The administrative step elevates the 18-year-old Islanders defenseman into consideration for a deep Canadian blue line at the 2026 Games.

Image
Nov 18, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; New York Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer (48) skates against the Dallas Stars during the first period at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Elliotte Friedman reported that Schaefer has entered the Olympic drug-testing program, a requirement that makes him selectable for Canada’s roster.
  • Schaefer has 15 points in 20 games with roughly 22:30 of average ice time as a rookie, positioning himself among early Calder Trophy frontrunners.
  • He set age marks this month as the youngest player to score an NHL overtime winner and the youngest defenseman with a multi-goal game.
  • The Islanders have managed his matchups by limiting minutes against top scorers while still giving him heavy usage to fuel production.
  • Canada’s defense corps from the 4 Nations Face-Off features established names like Cale Makar and Devon Toews, with alternatives such as Thomas Chabot, Brandon Montour, Vince Dunn, Jakob Chychrun and Evan Bouchard, as youth candidates Connor Bedard and Macklin Celebrini also earn consideration.