Alex Kovalev isn’t one to hold back his opinions. Just weeks ago, he criticized coach Ivan Demidov for underutilizing a player, which was against the majority view that favored waiting until the season’s end for change. Now, he’s stirring discussion among Canadiens fans with a bold claim in a Responsible Gambling interview—he believes Igor Shesterkin is the superior goalie over Carey Price.
Kovalev stated, “Shesterkin is better. He reads the game better.” He elaborated that while Price succeeded due to his size and positioning, Shesterkin’s ability to battle for pucks and read plays sets him apart. Kovalev noted that Price often depended on his defenders during cross-ice passes, whereas Shesterkin takes matters into his own hands.
Despite Kovalev’s impressive NHL career, many may find it hard to fully agree with him. While Shesterkin is undoubtedly talented, Carey Price consistently ranked among the league’s elite goaltenders and often played behind a less effective team. Despite limited offensive support throughout much of his career, Price led his team to victory and was viewed as one of the toughest goalies to face in the NHL.
Shesterkin is a strong goaltender, but he might lack the intimidating presence that Price had. It’s uncertain whether opinions will shift in the next five years; for now, if given a choice, Price would be the pick for an important game.
**Quick Hits:**
– **Ouch!** Despite Chris Kreider’s absence, the Rangers suffered their thirteenth loss in seventeen games, getting shut out 5-0 by the Devils.
– **Tension Rises:** Devils fans cheered “IGOR” during the game, while Rangers fans called for GM Drury’s job.
– **Wow!** The Devils showed a video of Rangers fans cheering Jack Hughes’ draft pick, making him laugh on the jumbotron.
**More News:** Sean Avery seeks head coach role for the Rangers
In a series of missteps, the Rangers are facing a steep decline following general manager Chris Drury’s public fallout. After trading players like Jacob Trouba and Kappo Kakko, the team finds itself struggling in the standings. Amid this turmoil, Sean Avery believes he can help change the course.
Citing a mention from Paul Bissonnette, Avery claims he has reached out to Drury about stepping in as head coach and already has potential assistants in mind, including Steve Ott.
This unexpected move raises eyebrows, as the Rangers are still dealing with the fallout from losing to the Devils 5-0, managing only 12 shots on goal amid a tense atmosphere following recent losses. The situation poses questions about Drury’s future and possibly that of current head coach Peter Laviolette as well. The pressure is certainly mounting in New York.
**In Brief:**
– The Devils celebrate their recent success.
– Logan Cooley is emerging as a cornerstone piece for his team, overshadowed by hype around other players.
– Top scorers from the 2022 draft highlight impressive performances, particularly from prospects like Hutson.
