The New York Rangers have had their fair share of incredible goaltending the last decade plus thanks to future Hall of Famer Henrik Lundqvist. Fans everywhere know that the King will eventually hang up his crown and skates one day. On Tuesday, the team called up AHL goaltender Igor Shesterkin to make his NHL debut and the rookie did not miss a beat.
The Blueshirts hosted the Colorado Avalanche at Madison Square Garden. It would be the first time Shesterkin would be under the bright lights of the world’s most famous arena. Shesterkin had put up incredible numbers in the AHL, having just a .193 goals against average, so opponents were ready for a battle.
Shesterkin struggled early, allowing two quick goals. Keep in mind, however, that this was his NHL debut so he was most likely nervous. Chris Kreider and Mika Zibanejad scored in the first period as well to knot things at two. The team knew that they had to get their rookie goaltender a win. The team eventually would go on to defeat Colorado, 5-3, with Shesterkin having twenty-nine saves and getting the win in his NHL debut.
“He certainly seems like he wants to be here and thinks he belongs here, which is a good feeling for everybody,” coach David Quinn said after the game.
“I gained confidence as the game went on. I was shaking on the way to the arena, but once I stepped on to the ice, I felt everyone’s support,” Shesterkin told reporters after the game.
Igor Shesterkin is only twenty-four years old. After last night’s showing, he is letting New York Rangers fans know that the team’s future is in the brightest of hands.
