In a revealing post-Olympic reflection, newly appointed New York Islanders head coach Peter DeBoer shared just how close teenage phenom Matthew Schaefer was to achieving a monumental feat: making Team Canada for the 2026 Winter Games as an 18-year-old.

DeBoer, who served as an assistant coach under Jon Cooper for Canada's silver-medal run, recently praised the rookie defenseman's astonishing maturity and immediate NHL impact. The veteran coach admitted to being stunned by Schaefer's play in the first half of the season, placing him within a "razor" of cracking the star-studded Olympic roster.

Ultimately, the management group, led by then-GM Doug Armstrong, opted for veteran experience and tournament-proven stability, a common but tough decision in high-stakes international play. Despite the snub, Schaefer's case became one of the most compelling storylines surrounding the team, highlighting a generational talent knocking on the door.

The decision looks even more remarkable considering Schaefer's historic rookie campaign. The 2025 first overall pick isn't just adapting to the NHL; he's dominating it. Leading all rookie defensemen in scoring and ice time, he has already shattered records, becoming the youngest blueliner ever to hit 50 points and setting the mark for most goals by an 18-year-old defenseman.

Now, with 22 goals and 58 points to his name, Schaefer's Olympic near-miss only adds to his legend. The exciting twist? DeBoer, who witnessed his brilliance from the Team Canada management box, now gets to coach him every day on Long Island, setting the stage for a thrilling partnership with the Islanders.