Home / Sports / Shesterkin Carries Rangers: Elite Goalie's Performance Fuels Playoff Hopes
Shesterkin Carries Rangers: Elite Goalie's Performance Fuels Playoff Hopes
21 Aug
Summary
- Igor Shesterkin's high-danger save percentage ranked fifth in the NHL last season.
- His even-strength save percentage was nearly elite, narrowly missing the top spot.
- Shesterkin's ability to keep games close is crucial for Rangers' playoff chances.
The New York Rangers, having missed the playoffs for two consecutive seasons, are looking to Igor Shesterkin to lead them back this year. Despite team struggles, the goalie remains one of the league's best. Last season, Shesterkin's advanced numbers were impressive. Among goalies with at least 40 games played, his .843 save percentage on high-danger shots ranked fifth in the NHL. He also achieved a .906 save percentage on mid-range attempts. At even strength, Shesterkin's performance elevated, recording a .926 save percentage. He consistently performed under pressure, maintaining a .932 save percentage in tied games or within one goal in the third period, keeping the Rangers competitive. While the team's defense faced significant shot attempts, Shesterkin's resilience was a constant. His elite goaltending is viewed as the driving force behind the Rangers' aspirations for a playoff spot in the Metropolitan Division.
