Ivan Demidov Now Has a Serious Challenger in the Calder Trophy Race
Ivan Demidov's start to the season has been making headlines in Montreal and across the league, but now an 18-year-old defenseman is joining the race for the Calder Trophy.
His name: Matthew Schaefer.
The New York Islanders defenseman is off to a blazing start in his first NHL season.
In just 12 games, he's already scored 5 goals and 10 points, putting him first among rookie defensemen in goals, and tied with Demidov in points. Considering he's a defenseman, that makes it even more impressive.
Matthew Schaefer surprises and joins Ivan Demidov atop the NHL rookie leaderboard
At 18 years old, it's simply remarkable.
The official NHL account shared the ranking of top rookie scorers, where Demidov and Schaefer sit side by side with 10 points each.
That's what the NHL posted on X, suggesting that the battle for Rookie of the Year could be one of the most thrilling of the season.
"This Calder Trophy race is going to be so interesting" - NHL
"Matthew Schaefer bests the great Bobby Orr in becoming the youngest defenceman in NHL history to log a multi-goal game"
- BarDown
- BarDown
From our perspective, it's no surprise - Demidov continues to impress with his offensive talent and vision on the ice - but it has to be said that Schaefer, as a defenseman, brings a completely different dimension.
Personally, I think it's great to see another young talent raising the level of competition. It's going to make this season really fun to follow!
It could push Demidov to take his game even higher and make the race even more exciting for fans.
And honestly, if Schaefer keeps up this pace at 18, we could be witnessing one of the best Calder Trophy battles in years.
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