Spencer Martin enjoying ‘unreal’ opportunity with the Rangers

Spencer Martin’s Unexpected Journey to Potential Starting Goaltender

Spencer Martin, a 30-year-old goaltender, finds himself reflecting on his unexpected opportunity during a recent practice at the Rangers’ facility in Tarrytown. Not long ago, he was competing for playing time with CSKA Moscow in the KHL, and he noted, “we’re a long way from getting an opportunity like this,” acknowledging the twists and turns he’s faced.

After a season that saw him post a 5-6-0 record along with a .905 save percentage across 14 games in the KHL, Martin was released from his contract. However, things quickly shifted as he secured a two-year deal with the Rangers, a step that opened the door for a potential return to the NHL.

His performance in AHL Hartford, while not stellar at 1-4-1 with a .903 save percentage, was enough to surpass 23-year-old Dylan Garland on the organization’s goaltender depth chart.

Now, due to Jonathan Quick’s injury and Igor Shesterkin being placed on injured reserve, Martin finds himself just one game away from stepping into the role of starting goaltender. He described this moment as “surreal.”

Reflecting on his situation, Martin expressed, “I think we’re getting to a point where we’re comfortable in these types of situations. It’s exciting to be here again.” The exact extent to which the Rangers will rely on him remains uncertain, especially considering the nearly 40-year-old Quick’s capacity to manage a full workload—a key factor in their plans.

Martin has opted to keep discussions about his role private with head coach Mike Sullivan but remains focused. With a wealth of experience, having started 59 games in the NHL since debuting with the Avalanche in 2016-17 after being drafted in the third round of the 2013 draft, he carries a solid background. His career also includes time with the Canucks, Blue Jackets, and Hurricanes, alongside significant games in the AHL.

In fact, Martin has played a total of 251 games in the AHL and last featured in an NHL game back in November 2024. Ideally for the Rangers, Shesterkin’s absence will be brief, allowing Quick to shoulder most of the responsibilities in goal.

However, Martin’s swift journey could soon lead to a new chapter. Sullivan emphasized the decision to choose Martin over Garland was based on performance, stating, “Obviously we have to have the players that give us the best chance to win when we put him in the net.”