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2d ago

Islanders Win Fifth Straight on Lee’s Late Winner as Schaefer Hits 20 Goals

Rookie defenseman Matthew Schaefer reached 20 goals, underscoring a surge that is reshaping the Metropolitan race.

ELMONT, NY - MARCH 16: Sam Bennett #9 of the Florida Panthers skates during the game against the New York Islanders at UBS Arena on March 16, 2025 in Elmont, New York. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Getty Images)
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Overview

  • The Islanders beat the Panthers 5-4 at UBS Arena, with Anders Lee scoring the go-ahead goal with 30.9 seconds left.
  • Matthew Schaefer recorded two goals and an assist to reach 20 goals at age 18, moving within three of Brian Leetch’s rookie defenseman record and becoming the first Islanders defenseman to hit 20 since Denis Potvin in 1985-86.
  • New York has won five straight and eight of ten, logging a third consecutive multi-goal comeback to start the post-Olympic stretch.
  • The club remains unbeaten in games decided in overtime this season at 8-0, a run highlighted by Simon Holmstrom’s OT winner in Columbus the previous night after trailing 2-0.
  • The victory keeps the Islanders tied with Pittsburgh for second in the Metropolitan Division (Penguins hold games in hand), while Florida has dropped two straight and remains eight points out of a wild-card spot amid significant injuries.