As the 2026 NHL season heats up, a shocking disparity between two of the league's most storied franchises is emerging. New York Islanders rookie Matthew Schaefer is rapidly making a name for himself, racking up impressive statistics and earning rave reviews from fans and pundits alike. Meanwhile, Los Angeles Kings veteran blueliner Drew Doughty, a perennial NHL All-Star and Olympic gold medalist, has yet to record a single point in the new year. The question on everyone's mind is whether Schaefer's breakout performance warrants consideration for Team Canada over the experienced Doughty, who has traditionally been a lock for the national team. As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: Schaefer's meteoric rise has put him firmly in the crosshairs of international hockey scouts.
New York Islanders rookie Matthew Schaefer is surging, while Los Angeles Kings blueliner Drew Doughty hasn't recorded a point yet in 2026. Should Schaefer have made Team Canada over Doughty despite playing different sides?