Igor Shesterkin is the Rangers’ crunch-time edge

Larry Brooks NHL by Larry Brooks
Published Nov. 2, 2023, 6:45 a.m. ET

When it comes to goaltenders, crunch time is the only time. And over the first three weeks of the season, no one has been more clutch for the Rangers than Igor Shesterkin. However, the goalie himself isn’t fully satisfied with his performance, despite his 5-2 record, 2.56 GAA, and .905 save percentage.

In an interview with The Post after Wednesday’s practice, Shesterkin said, “I’m still trying to find my game. I feel good, but I’m not happy with some of the goals I’ve given up. The team has been a big help to me, so I’m still working things out. I just want to be myself.”

Sure, there have been a few shaky moments. Maybe one to the short side here and there. Perhaps there was one in Winnipeg on Monday or one in Vancouver on Saturday with traffic in front of the net. There may have even been some surprising ones in the first two home matches. However, when the game is on the line, Shesterkin has come up big, just as he did during his Vezina-winning season last year. The stats might not show it, but Igor Shesterkin is the difference-maker for the Rangers.

In their recent games, the Rangers were often outplayed in overtime, being outshot and struggling before eventually winning. Despite this, Shesterkin remains calm under pressure and finds positive takeaways from these big moments.

“I don’t think about those moments in the game, I just focus on saving my net,” Shesterkin explained. “But when I make a big play in overtime and help the team stay in the game after giving up a weak goal, that’s what I need to do for my teammates. It motivates me to keep working hard.”

Shesterkin is currently in his fifth season with the Rangers and is adapting to the new system under head coach Peter Laviolette, just like his teammates. While the system may be new, goaltending coach Benoit Allaire is still there for support. Despite Laviolette having the final say in goaltending decisions, Shesterkin still communicates primarily with Allaire.

“My routine is still the same. I’ve been talking to Benny for the past four years more than almost anyone else here,” Shesterkin shared. “But I do talk to [Laviolette] sometimes. It’s not a big deal. He’s always positive. There’s more communication with Benny, though. If I have a question, I ask him, and he discusses it with the coaching staff.”

Laviolette emphasizes building strong relationships with his players and regularly checks in with them individually. This personal approach helps foster a positive atmosphere within the team.

“I’ve talked to Igor a few times, both on and off the ice. We discuss different things like TV shows and family,” Laviolette said. “Everyone is different within the team, so it’s important to understand each player and have those conversations.”

The Rangers are aiming for their sixth consecutive victory on Thursday, and while Shesterkin’s numbers might not be the most elite, his performance when the game is on the line is outstanding. He’s the goalie who gives his team the edge. When it’s crunch time, it’s Shesterkin Time.

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Sarah Anderson

Sarah Anderson dives into the fast-paced world of NHL hockey. Her coverage includes game analysis, player spotlights, and the latest news from the ice. Sarah’s dedication to the sport ensures that hockey enthusiasts stay informed about the NHL’s thrilling action.