ELMONT, N.Y. -- Matthew Schaefer received multiple ovations Saturday at decibels that perhaps hadn’t been reached at UBS Arena since the New York Islanders arrived for their first game here four years ago.

The first cheer for their new defenseman was expected -- when he hit the ice during pregame introductions for the Islanders’ home opener.

But Schaefer later gave them another reason to cheer, fulfilling a lifelong dream after just 18 years and 36 days with his first NHL goal in the third period of a 4-2 loss to the Washington Capitals.

“I love these fans,” Schaefer said. “It’s awesome. It feels like home for sure. I’m 18 years old, and when the fans show so much support, it’s pretty amazing to me. I know my dad and brother, and I guarantee you they’re going to leave here with a gre

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