What will Matthew Schaefer’s next contract look like?

Analysts Jeff Marek and Stefen Rosner discussed projected contract extension figures for New York Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer on an episode of The Sheet. Following an offseason where young players received major extensions, the 19-year-old Calder Trophy winner is considered a candidate for a potentially record-setting new deal at the conclusion of his entry-level contract.

During the discussion, Rosner suggested Schaefer will not take a hometown discount, projecting negotiations could start around $20 million annually or reach $21 to $22 million per year on a five-year deal. The article notes recent eight-year extensions signed by Vancouver Canucks defenseman Zeev Buium, Washington Capitals forward Ryan Leonard, and Buffalo Sabres forward Noah Ostlund as context for rising league-wide deals.