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Matthew Schaefer Honors Late Mother After OT Winner

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ankit Kumar | Last updated Jan 4, 2026 10:46 AM ET

Matthew Schaefer delivered a moment to remember Saturday night, both on the ice and in his heart.

The 18-year-old defenseman scored twice, including the overtime winner, to lift the New York Islanders to a 4-3 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs. After the game, Schaefer honored his late mother with an emotional message.

Schaefer admitted he felt under the weather throughout the day and was unsure what his body would allow. Still, he pushed through, leaning on the strength he felt from his mother.

"[I was] feeling a little bit under the weather as the day started," Schaefer said. "So, you know, you don't really know what's gonna go on when, feeling a little under the weather. Your body's not, you know, there, so you just gotta go out there play as hard as you can.

"I know my mom gave me a little bit of strength throughout this game [to] just keep going. And I know we got two big days off, so I just gotta get some rest these next two days."

Schaefer post game said he was under the weather all day but got the strength from his mom for the game tonight.

Goosebumps.

: @IslesMSGN pic.twitter.com/pJmGD3bNBa
— Rob Taub (@RTaub_) January 4, 2026

The night ended with Schaefer sealing the win at 4 minutes, 11 seconds of overtime. His message was emotional considering the challenges he has faced before getting picked No. 1 overall in the 2025 NHL Draft.

Schaefer’s mother, Jennifer, passed away in February 2024 after a battle with breast cancer. She played a major role in his hockey life and has remained his role model.

"I know my mom's always got my back, no matter what," Schaefer said. "She's a strong woman, and she did a lot of things in life for me, my brother, and she was a big role model for me. I wish I was as strong as her, but I will never be, because moms are the strongest people around. She definitely gave me a little bit of that strength tonight."

THIS KID IS INCREDIBLE!!

Matthew Schaefer secures the win in @Energizer overtime! pic.twitter.com/ybKEHERH3d
— NHL (@NHL) January 4, 2026

The goal was special in more ways than one. Schaefer became the first defenseman in NHL history to record two multigoal games at age 18. That mark was never reached by Bobby Orr, which adds weight to the achievement. The overtime finish mirrored the style of a goal scored earlier by Maple Leafs' all-time goals leader Auston Matthews, as Schaefer attacked wide and waited out the goalie.

Schaefer continues to honor his mother with his play. Each shift reflects his belief and purpose. On Saturday, that bond showed in the biggest moment of the game.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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