New York Islanders rookie Matthew Schaefer took two cheap shots from Boston's Nikita Zadorov in their 4-3 shootout loss, raising urgent questions about protecting the franchise's cornerstone player. At 18 years old and still developing physically, can the Islanders afford to leave their future defenseman vulnerable to veteran intimidation?

Gil Martin breaks down why the team must acquire a player who can both contribute on the ice and deter opponents from targeting Schaefer, drawing parallels to how Clark Gillies protected Mike Bossy during the dynasty years. The analysis covers Bo Horvat's two-goal performance, the emerging chemistry between Horvat and Mathew Barzal, and three straight games of improved defensive structure that's helping Ilya Sokin regain confidence. Plus, updates on Bridgeport Islanders' recent stretch, prospect Kashawn Aitchison's lights-out performance in juniors, and Alexei Yashin's memorable hat trick at Madison Square Garden.

Discover why this roster decision could define the Islanders' next decade and whether GM Matthew Darche will act before it's too late.

All this and more on today's Locked On Islanders Podcast with Gil Martin.

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