One of the interesting developments in the New York Rangers' practice today was the first goaltender to leave the ice. New York plays a matinee tomorrow against the New Jersey Devils, meaning a morning skate will not be possible. So, when it comes to the goaltenders, we cannot read too much into it, but the starter usually departs the ice first. This is interesting because Jonathan Quick was the first goaltender to leave the ice.
Quick is an excellent goaltender with a great track record and a fantastic resume. However, Igor Shesterkin makes $11.5 million for the next eight years to be the backstop for this Rangers roster. In a pivotal game against a rival, the Blueshirts could be pivoting to the backup and away from their former Vezina-winning netminder. It seems like a rash decision, but this could be a statement from Peter Laviolette and his coaching staff if he is going through with it.
Jonathan Quick has played 22 games this season with a record of 10-6-2. He's got three shutouts and a .898 save percentage to accompany a 3.03 goals-against average. Quick's stats took a hit when the Rangers embarked on that tailspin in late 2024, but they are now looking to the future to get back in the postseason. Installing Quick would be a courageous decision, but if it pays off, you get Igor a little more rest during a playoff race.
Shesterkin has a .905 save percentage and a 2.86 goals-against average. He's not been up to his typical counting stat totals, but his underlying numbers still suggest he is a top-four netminder in the NHL despite playing behind the inept Rangers' defense. We won't know who starts until tomorrow, but this will be an interesting point of contention for the rest of the night.