Shesterkin: A Wall Between the Pipes for the Rangers
A Netminder With Championship Potential
Igor Shesterkin, penchant for spectacular saves and a calm demeanor in the crease, has quickly established himself as one of the premier goaltenders in the National Hockey League. Since joining the New York Rangers in 2020, the 27-year-old has propelled the team to new heights, securing two Eastern Conference Finals appearances in just three seasons.
Shesterkin’s dominance between the pipes has earned him accolades. He claimed the coveted Vezina Trophy in 2022, recognizing him as the league’s top goaltender. In that remarkable season, he also finished third in voting for the Hart Trophy, awarded to the league’s most valuable player.
But Shesterkin isn’t content with individual achievements. For him, team success reigns supreme.
“I will not publicly engage in private conversations or negotiations with Igor or his agents, but you all know what I think of Igor and what we all think of Igor here, and we of course hope that he is here for a long time and is a Ranger,” Rangers general manager Chris Drury said during training camp. “You know how important he is to our team and our organization. We will do everything we can to make sure he stays here for a long time.”
Drury’s unwavering confidence in Shesterkin reflects the goaltender’s integral role in the Rangers’ aspirations. In the high-pressure world of professional hockey, a dependable netminder can be the difference between victory and defeat.
Since the start of the 2021-22 season, he’s flourished, ranking second among goaltenders with at least 100 games played. His 2.45 goals against average (GAA) and impressive 92.0% save percentage highlight his remarkable consistency. Extended to the Stanley Cup Playoffs, his performance remains stellar, boasting a 2.39 GAA and a 92.9% save percentage in 43 games.
Despite his exceptional skillset, Shesterkin faced a sluggish start to last season. The All-Star goalie posted a 2.86 GAA and an 89.9% save percentage through the first 32 games, failing to record a single shutout. This inconsistency, however, did not define his season.
“Igor was just fantastic and his performances in the playoffs were outstanding,” Rangers coach Peter Laviolette said. “It’s such an important position that it’s nice not to have to talk about it so much.”
After a week of dedicated practice following the All-Star break, Shesterkin returned to form.
He finished the regular season strong, achieving a 2.20 GAA and a 93.0% save percentage across 23 games, adding four shutouts to his resume. His playoff performance mirrored his renewed vigor, displaying a 2.34 GAA and a 92.7% save percentage across 16 games.
Originally drafted by the Rangers in the fourth round (No. 118) of the 2014 NHL Draft, Shesterkin’s impact has been undeniable. His overall record of 144 wins, 68 losses, and 18 ties speaks volumes about his unwavering commitment to the team. His 2.47 GAA and 92.0% save percentage throughout 232 regular season games (227 starts) cement his status as an elite goaltender.
Shesterkin’s journey started with the Rangers’ minor league affiliate, the Hartford Wolf Pack. He honed his skills and gained valuable experience before his debut with the Rangers in 2020.
With Shesterkin standing tall between the pipes, the Rangers’ future appears bright. His remarkable talent, coupled with unwavering determination, positions him as a key component of the team’s quest for the Stanley Cup.
How has Igor Shesterkin’s presence impacted the New York Rangers’ performance and overall team trajectory?
## Shesterkin: A Wall Between the Pipes
Welcome back to the show! Today we’re joined by Alex Reed, a hockey analyst with years of experience covering the NHL.
**[Host]:** Igor Shesterkin has become a household name among hockey fans. He’s known for his acrobatic saves and coolness under pressure. Can you tell us a little more about what makes him so special?
**[Alex Reed]:** Absolutely! Shesterkin transcends the typical definition of a goaltender. His athleticism is undeniable, allowing him to make unbelievable stops seemingly out of nowhere. But what truly sets him apart is his composure. He never seems flustered, even in the most intense moments. That mental fortitude is invaluable in a demanding sport like hockey.
**[Host]:** He achieved some impressive accolades recently.
**[Alex Reed]:** Definitely. He won the Vezina Trophy in 2022, which goes to the league’s best goalie. He was also a finalist for the Hart Trophy, awarded to the league’s most valuable player. These awards are testament to his impact on the game and the success of the Rangers.
**[Host]:** The Rangers seem to be building a strong foundation. With Shesterkin in net, their outlook looks bright.
**[Alex Reed]:** Absolutely. Shesterkin is the backbone of that team. As Rangers General Manager Chris Drury recently stated [[1](https://nypost.com/2024/12/06/sports/rangers-sign-igor-shesterkin-to-record-breaking-92-million-contract/)], they recognize his value and are determined to keep him in New York. With him in goal, the Rangers have a legitimate shot at contending for the Stanley Cup.
**[Host]:** Thanks for your insights, Alex Reed. We’ll be watching the Rangers closely this season and wishing Shesterkin continued success.
