Alexander Georgiev makes return to MSG for anticipated clash with Rangers.
By Marvin Azrak
For Alexander Georgiev, his Rangers tenure will primarily be defined by his inconsistent performance, a nickname, and failure to amass unfair expectations. Tuesday night marks a return to the goaltender’s former home, as the “Bulgarian beast,” as he was referred to on his good nights, will lead the reigning-champion Colorado Avalanche onto Madison Square Garden ice for a blockbuster affair with the New York Rangers. Throughout his four-year stint with the Blueshirts, Georgiev struggled to solidify himself as a starting goaltender, for he was the backup to the legendary Henrik Lundqvist before being usurped by Vezina-winner Igor Shesterkin.
But when the opportunity arose, the 6’1 180, pounder seemed overwhelmed by the broadway lights and the pressure to hold his own against two generational talents.
With restricted free agency on Georgiev’s contract looming and Shesterkin having asserted himself as the future regarding Rangers goaltending, it was time for a change of scenery.
The 26-year-old was dealt on July 7 to Colorado for third and fifth-round picks in the 2022 draft (Bryce McConnell-Baker, and Maxim Barbashev)and a third-rounder in 2023. Additionally, the Bulgarian inked a 3X$10.2 million contract extension, as the Avalanche paid him to fill the void left by Cup-winning goaltender Darcey Kuemper, now with the Washington Capitals.
The netminder will likely be the fourth ex-Ranger in the past week receiving a tribute, as Frank Vatrano and Ryan Strome were given their due last Monday when the Anaheim Ducks came to town. Former coach David Quinn was unfairly greeted with boos by the crowd, who received a dose of karma upon leaving the building that night, with San Jose rallying for a 3-2 overtime victory. Georgiev may have had performance issues, but his competitiveness and resilience that embodies New Yorkers allowed the previously undrafted prospect to stick around for as long as he did, creating some breathtaking moments. Here’s the story of #40.