NHL Calder Trophy Race: Schaefer Leads the Pack at Mid-Season
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Published: 2026/01/06 09:10:50
As the NHL season reaches its halfway point, the race for the Calder Trophy – awarded annually to the league’s best rookie – is heating up. New York Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer currently leads the pack, showcasing a level of skill and maturity rarely seen in 18-year-olds.
Schaefer’s Dominant Performance
Selected first overall in the 2025 NHL Draft, Schaefer has quickly become a transformative player for the Islanders. Through 42 games, he leads all first-year players in key defensive categories, including goals (12), points (28), power-play points (13), shots on goal (113), penalties drawn (24), and blocked shots (58). He also averages an impressive 23:50 of ice time per game.
Islanders coach Patrick Roy highlighted Schaefer’s confidence and swagger as key attributes to his success. “For an 18-year-old,playing with guys who have so much experience,to see that swagger,the way he moves,that’s what you want from any young player,” Roy stated.
Schaefer’s impact extends beyond statistics. He recently broke NHL records, becoming the youngest defenseman to reach 25 points and 10 goals in a season, surpassing marks previously held by Phil Housley and Scott Stevens.
The Contenders
While Schaefer is the current frontrunner, several other rookies are making strong cases for the Calder Trophy.
Jesper Wallstedt (Minnesota Wild)
Minnesota Wild goaltender Jesper Wallstedt sits in second place in the voting, with 50 points. The 2021 draft pick boasts an 11-2-4 record with a 2.30 goals-against average and a league-leading four shutouts in 17 starts. He was named the NHL Rookie of the Month for November after a stellar performance,posting a 1.14 GAA and .967 save percentage. Wallstedt credits his success to maintaining composure, stating, “I think when I’m calm, that’s the key.”
Beckett sennecke (Anaheim Ducks)
Anaheim Ducks forward Beckett Sennecke is another strong contender, ranking third with 47 points. Sennecke has 32 points (14 goals, 18 assists) and leads rookie forwards in even-strength points with 26. Ducks coach Joel Quenneville praised Sennecke’s demeanor and willingness to learn, noting his “brash” playing style and coachability.
Calder Trophy voting Update
As of the halfway point of the 2025-26 season, the voting breakdown is as follows:
- Matthew Schaefer (Islanders): 78 points (15 first-place votes)
- Jesper Wallstedt (Wild): 50 points
- Beckett Sennecke (Ducks): 47 points
- Ivan Demidov (Canadiens): 41 points (1 first-place vote)
- Yaroslav Askarov (Sharks): 6 points
- Oliver Kapanen (Canadiens): 5 points
- Ryan Leonard (Capitals): 4 points
- Zeev Buium (Canucks): 4 points
- Alexander Nikishin (Hurricanes): 3 points
- Jakub Dobes (Canadiens): 1 point
- Emmitt Finnie (Red Wings): 1 point
Looking ahead
With the second half of the season underway, the Calder Trophy race promises to be exciting. Matthew Schaefer has established himself as the clear favorite, but Wallstedt and Sennecke, along with other emerging rookies, will undoubtedly continue to challenge for the honour. The coming months will determine who ultimately earns the title of the NHL’s best rookie.