Rangers’ Mike Sullivan has nothing but praise for ‘one-man breakout’ Matthew Schaefer

Rangers’ Mike Sullivan has nothing but praise for ‘one-man breakout’ Matthew Schaefer

Mike Sullivan coached surefire Hall of Famers Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin for several years in Pittsburgh, so he knows a budding NHL star when he sees one. The Rangers’ first-year head coach dropped that term on Islanders rookie defenseman Matthew Schaefer — the No. 1 overall pick in this year’s draft — before Saturday’s rivalry visit to UBS Arena.

Islanders' Patrick Roy has no problem with Barzal defending Schaefer

When your team lands one of the most promising young players in the league, making sure he stays protected becomes a top priority.