Every NHL season brings its own surprises, but few stories have captured the imagination of fans in Montreal—and across the hockey world—quite like the meteoric rise of Ivan Demidov. The young Montreal Canadiens forward has been the subject of headlines since the opening puck drop, dazzling audiences with a rare blend of skill, poise, and offensive firepower. Demidov’s electric start made him the early favorite for the Calder Trophy, awarded annually to the league’s top rookie. Yet, just as the spotlight seemed fixed on Montreal’s newest star, a twist in the tale has emerged—one that promises to shake up the race in ways nobody saw coming.

Enter Matthew Schaefer. At just 18 years old, the New York Islanders defenseman has burst onto the NHL scene with an impact that’s impossible to ignore. In a league where rookie blueliners typically take time to find their footing, Schaefer has defied expectations with a scoring touch that rivals the best forwards in the game. Through his first 12 games, Schaefer has already netted 5 goals and tallied 10 points, putting him atop the rookie defenseman leaderboard and—perhaps most shockingly—tied with Demidov himself in total points. For a defenseman to keep pace with a forward in the Calder race is rare; for one this young, it’s almost unheard of.

This morning, the official NHL account added fuel to the fire by sharing the rookie scoring rankings on social media, highlighting Demidov and Schaefer side by side. The message was clear: the battle for Rookie of the Year is just beginning, and it could be one of the most thrilling contests the league has seen in years. For fans and analysts alike, the emergence of Schaefer as a true challenger has transformed what once looked like a one-man show into a dramatic two-player duel, with each game carrying new implications for the coveted Calder Trophy.

Adding to the intrigue, Schaefer’s performance is drawing comparisons to some of the greatest names in NHL history. As noted by BarDown, Schaefer recently bested the legendary Bobby Orr by becoming the youngest defenseman ever to record a multi-goal game in the NHL. It’s the kind of milestone that not only turns heads but also hints at a generational talent in the making. For Demidov, the challenge isn’t just about maintaining his own momentum—it’s about responding to a rival who brings a completely different dimension to the ice, blending defensive responsibility with unexpected offensive flair.

From a fan’s perspective, this sudden escalation in competition is nothing short of exhilarating. The presence of two elite rookies, each pushing the other to greater heights, promises to make every Canadiens and Islanders game a must-watch event. It’s the kind of storyline that could define the season, turning ordinary nights into unforgettable moments.

But as the race heats up, questions abound. Can Demidov hold off this surprise challenger and claim the Calder Trophy? Will Schaefer’s historic pace continue, rewriting the record books as he goes? And what impact will this rivalry have on both players—and their teams—as the season unfolds?

The answers remain uncertain, but one thing is clear: the Calder Trophy race has never been more unpredictable, and the best may be yet to come.

Montreal Canadiens forward Ivan Demidov

Photo credit: RG

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

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.