The New York Rangers are grappling with a significant challenge as goaltender Igor Shesterkin has been placed on injured reserve due to an upper body injury, according to a source familiar with the situation who spoke on the condition of anonymity.
This development adds pressure to the Rangers during a challenging period, as they are currently experiencing a four-game losing streak. Over recent weeks, the Rangers have struggled, losing seven of their last eight games and 15 of their past 19. This has dramatically shifted their position from a contender in the playoff race to last place in the Metropolitan Division, just above the Buffalo Sabres in the Eastern Conference.
Igor Shesterkin, a pivotal figure for the Rangers, recently inked a substantial contract extension valued at $92 million, securing his place with the team through the 2032-33 season. Despite being a former Vezina Trophy winner in 2022, recognizing him as the league’s top goaltender with a 2.58 goals-against average (GAA) and a .912 save percentage, this season has been more challenging for Shesterkin. Currently, he holds a record of 11-15-1 with a 3.10 GAA and a .906 save percentage across 27 games.
As the Rangers adjust to Shesterkin’s absence, the team’s general manager, Chris Drury, has been active in making strategic changes. Earlier this month, Drury traded captain Jacob Trouba to the Anaheim Ducks and winger Kaapo Kakko to the Seattle Kraken. These moves signify efforts to reshape the team’s dynamics in response to their recent form.
Shesterkin’s injury occurs at a critical juncture for the Rangers, as his contributions have been instrumental in past successes, including advancing to the Eastern Conference final before falling to the Florida Panthers. The team’s current situation underscores the unpredictability of sports and the challenges teams face in maintaining competitive performance over a lengthy season.
As the Rangers navigate this difficult phase without their star goaltender, the team’s ability to adapt will be crucial in determining their trajectory for the remainder of the season.
Source: News4jax
