The New York Islanders have shown they have rookie Matthew Schaefer’s back when someone takes liberties with the defenseman.
But Mathew Barzal went too far in his response in on-ice officials’ eyes and was ejected from the Islanders’ game against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Sunday, Dec. 28.
Columbus’ Mason Marchment stuck out his knee and tripped 2025 No. 1 overall pick Schaefer early in the second period. It was his second penalty of the game against Schaefer after he was called for roughing in the first period.
Barzal responded with a vicious two-handed slash to Marchment’s leg.
He received a five-minute slashing major and a game misconduct.
Marchment, who received two minutes for tripping, and Schaefer were able to continue playing in the game.