NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 30: Igor Shesterkin #31 of the New York Rangers during the national anthem prior to the game against the Florida Panthers in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Final of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Madison Square Garden on May 30, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Jared Silber/NHLI via Getty Images)
New York Rangers’ Igor Shesterkin Announces Devastating Injury News
New York Rangers star goaltender Igor Shesterkin has confirmed a major setback for both himself and the team, revealing on Monday that he will be out indefinitely due to a significant lower-body injury. The 28-year-old, who has been one of the NHL’s top goaltenders over the past few seasons, sustained the injury during the Rangers’ 4-1 win over the Florida Panthers last Saturday.
Speaking to reporters, Shesterkin expressed frustration and disappointment, acknowledging that he is facing a lengthy recovery period. While the team has not officially disclosed the full extent of the injury, sources indicate that it could be a serious strain or tear, potentially involving his groin or hamstring, both of which are critical for a goaltender’s mobility.
Shesterkin’s injury is a devastating blow for the Rangers, who have relied heavily on his elite performance between the pipes since acquiring him in 2017. The Russian netminder has consistently been a top contender for the Vezina Trophy and was instrumental in the Rangers’ deep playoff run last season. This season, Shesterkin has posted a solid 2.32 goals-against average and .921 save percentage through the first month of play, helping the team remain in the upper echelon of the Metropolitan Division standings.
With Shesterkin sidelined, veteran backup Jonathan Quick will take over as the Rangers’ starting goaltender. Quick, a two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Los Angeles Kings, has experience in high-pressure situations and will be called upon to maintain the team’s strong performance.
Head coach Peter Laviolette expressed his support for Shesterkin and his determination to return stronger, saying, “We’ll work with Igor to get him healthy, but right now, we need to focus on how we play in his absence.” The Rangers’ next several weeks could be critical as they adjust to life without one of the league’s premier goaltenders.
