Rangers’ Strong Start with Shesterkin’s Stellar Performance

BUFFALO — Igor Shesterkin has been nothing short of remarkable in the Rangers’ opening games this season, securing 65 saves out of 66 shots faced.

New Rangers head coach Mike Sullivan, previously of the Pittsburgh Penguins, had some thoughts on Shesterkin’s performance after the Rangers clinched a 4-0 victory against the Sabers at KeyBank Center on Thursday night. “He’s a world-class goaltender, one of the best,” Sullivan remarked, clearly pleased. “He makes crucial saves at essential moments, which can really complicate things for opposing teams. We never take that for granted. He was exceptional tonight and just as good last night.”

Shesterkin turned away all 37 shots launched at him by the Sabers, including a particularly intense twelve in the third period alone.

Even though the Sabers had three power play opportunities in the second period, Shesterkin was alert, successfully redirecting attempts including a risky shot from Tage Thompson.

“Having a reliable goaltender is a great asset,” said Carson Soucy, who netted his second goal for the Rangers, giving them a 2-0 edge in the third. “We’re just focused on providing him with good sightlines. He’s going to make those saves often.”

Conor Sheary stood out prominently when he joined the Rangers training camp three weeks ago. Even after spending the previous season in the AHL, his experience and effort distinguished him from younger players who were still in middle school during his first Stanley Cup win in 2016.

Ultimately, the Rangers offered Sheary a one-year, two-way contract for a league-minimum $775,000.

“I was thrilled when I got the contract,” Sheary mentioned. “I had talked about coming in for a professional tryout and how different it felt to break into a new locker room, trying to earn respect from teammates and coaches. Finally landing a deal and making the opening night roster was really special for me.”

“My aim was to return to the NHL and solidify my place here, so hopefully I can keep proving that I belong this season.”

There seemed to be little doubt about Sheary’s spot on the Rangers post-training camp, particularly as the third line was nearly vacant.

Having won two Stanley Cups together in Pittsburgh, the undersized winger was eager to demonstrate his value and prove the skeptics wrong during the preseason.

In another highlight, Will Borgen hit a milestone with his 300th NHL game on Thursday.

As the Rangers prepare for practice in Pittsburgh on Friday, they will also face off against the Penguins, marking Sullivan’s return to the city after his long tenure with the team.