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Jonathan Quick has thrived as one of NHL's top backups and Rangers fans are thrilled to have him back

Jonathan Quick has emerged as one of the NHL’s most dependable backup goaltenders, delivering steady, veteran-level play since joining the New York Rangers. His strong performances aren’t about overshadowing the starters — they’re a testament to how valuable elite backup goaltending can be in today’s NHL. Quick’s ability to step in, stay sharp, and win games has quietly made him one of the league’s best No. 2 options, and Rangers fans have every reason to appreciate his contributions.
ByJustin Bonhard|
Vegas Golden Knights v New York Rangers
Vegas Golden Knights v New York Rangers | Bruce Bennett/GettyImages

The New York Rangers are amongst the hottest teams in the NHL right now, with a 5-1-2 record over their last eight games. Goaltender Igor Shesterkin had fronted seven of those eight starts, as Jonathan Quick was recovering from injury.

Now, with Quick healthy, the Rangers are reaping the benefits from the nearly 40-year-old tendy. And, Rangers fans should be very thankful that they have him as the backup goaltender, and not someone else who could have really put a damper on this season.

Let's talk about how important Quick has been, and why he will be crucial going forward.

In Quick we trust

The Vegas Golden Knights are one of the top teams in the NHL, and on the second part of a back-to-back, it was Quick's turn to get back on the ice. I will admit, I was the first to say that Shesterkin should have gotten one more start against a very good Golden Knights team, and boy, was I wrong.

But Quick hopped right back into that crease and put on a masterful performance. He stopped 26 pucks, and even though it resulted in a loss in overtime, a point was gained. With how tight the Metropolitan Division is this season, every point is going to matter until someone really pulls away from the pole position.

I bet a bunch of teams would kill to have be their number one option in goal this season.

Please stay healthy

It is unclear if this is the last ride for Quick, as his contract does expire after this season. Realistically, playing after turning 40 has not been successful for many goaltenders, but Quick has always proven himself against the odds. For now, and the rest of this season, the Rangers faithful have to hope he stays healthy.

Shesterkin can handle the workload, as it was evident during that seven straight start stretch before the Vegas contest. Plus, the Rangers have to expect Shesterkin to jump into any game at any time, no matter what, considering they are paying him the richest goalie contract in NHL history.

Quick has to remain healthy, giving this superb goaltending tandem enough chances to help push the Blueshirts into the playoffs.

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