The New York Rangers are aiming to secure a contract with star goalie Igor Shesterkin prior to next summer’s NHL Free Agency. However, Shesterkin has reportedly declined a contract offer from the team. The goalie has been outstanding at the start of the season, which may increase his asking price in negotiations. After the Rangers’ victory over the Ottawa Senators on Friday, defenseman K’Andre Miller highlighted Shesterkin’s impressive performance.
Following the 2-1 win against Ottawa, Miller praised Shesterkin for making 40 saves, ensuring the team’s first win in November. He acknowledged the need for the team to improve their defensive play but expressed confidence in having an exceptional goalie backing them up.
“Everyone on the bench is just hoping he pulls off another fantastic save. He keeps delivering,” Miller said, as reported by NHL.com’s Dan Rosen. “While we want to tighten up our defense, we are really thankful for having him back there.”
Heading into the game against Ottawa, the Rangers were looking to rebound after losing two out of their previous three games, including one in which Shesterkin let in four goals against the Washington Capitals despite making 41 saves. However, he was solid on Friday. Artemi Panarin quickly put New York ahead early in the game with his seventh goal of the season. After a scoreless second period, Alexis Lafreniere extended the lead to 2-0 with a power-play goal in the third.
The Senators managed to avoid a shutout thanks to Adam Gaudette, who scored his fifth goal of the season midway through the third period, but it wasn’t sufficient to change the outcome, leaving Ottawa with a record of 5-5-0.
Miller pointed out some concerns with the Rangers’ defense, as the team ranks in the lower half of the league in shots allowed, tied with the Calgary Flames with 327 shots given up over 10 games.
While Shesterkin can’t be relied on to save the day every night, he has proven he can make crucial saves when needed. With him in net, the Rangers feel they have a solid chance to win against any opponent.
