Igor Shesterkin has never had a season in the NHL in which he's earned more losses than wins. It seemed as though this trend may end in the 2024-25 season, as Shesterkin found himself the owner of an 11-15-1 record at the beginning of January.
Since then, however, the Russian native has stepped up in a big way. In his last five starts, Shesterkin has posted a stellar record of 4-0-1, boasting an average save percentage of .933, and a goals against average of just 1.80. In his most recent start, Shesterkin made 27 saves in a 1-0 shootout win over the Columbus Blue Jackets at Madison Square Garden.
Igor Shesterkin shuts the door to give the Rangers the shootout win 🗽 pic.twitter.com/5j2MgxXCGa
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) January 19, 2025
Tuesday night will see a showdown between the Rangers and Senators in New York that will afford Shesterkin the opportunity to improve his season record to 16-15-2- bringing him back to positive, and more in line with past season performances.
In the Rangers' previous meeting with Ottawa this season, Shesterkin turned in an all-star performance, saving 40 of 41 shots and leading the Blueshirts to a closely contested 2-1 win on home ice. In the game, Shesterkin made some jaw-dropping saves to keep the Rangers in it and give them a chance at victory.
Another huge stop by Igor Shesterkin, this time on Giroux#NYR pic.twitter.com/6W8wmWX2ZZ
— Hockey Daily 365 l NHL Highlights & News (@HockeyDaily365) November 2, 2024
Shesterkin has been playing some of his best hockey as of late, and it's helped the Rangers begin to climb out of a hole they dug themselves throughout November and December. Since the new year, the Blueshirts are 6-1-3, earning points in nine of 10 games, and beating quality teams like the New Jersey Devils and Vegas Golden Knights.
Prior to their matchup with the Senators tonight, the Rangers find themselves four points out of a wild card spot in the Eastern Conference. Additionally, the Blueshirts are kicking off a four game homestand tonight at MSG, and would benefit greatly from starting off with a bang. A win would bring the Rangers to a 23-20-4 record on the season, and a 7-1-3 record in 2025.
Though the Rangers have been picking up points as of late, there have still been defensive lapses in important moments, and it has fallen to the goaltenders to bail the team out. If the Blueshirts are to win tonight, it's likely that Shesterkin will be called on to make big saves in big moments. With Shesterkin recently signing his $92-million dollar contract, his absolute best is expected by Blueshirt fans and nothing else will do.