Mar 23, 2023; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; New York Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin (31) celebrates their victory against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports
NHL: New York Rangers at Carolina Hurricanes
CHICAGO — Igor Shesterkin is back in net for the New York Rangers.
The goaltender will make his first start since Jan. 26 and first since the All-Star break on Friday night against the Chicago Blackhawks.
“It was part of the plan,” head coach Peter Laviolette said. “He had some good practice work with [director of goaltending Benoit Allaire]. What I’m hoping to see from everybody who plays in the game [Friday night], is a good hockey game.
According to Laviolette, the plan was to get Shesterkin some extra rest. It was considered to be a reset for Russian goalie, who participated in All-Star weekend, despite struggling this season. Over his last 10 appearances, Igor has went 4-5-1 with a 3.25 goals-against average and a .863 save percentage.
“I think more than anything he’s helping me, right?” Quick said of Shesterkin. “He’s just such a phenomenal goalie. I learn a lot just from watching him. I’m a big believer in having that relationship with your goalie partner where if I see something I can help him, if he sees something he can help me. I think that goes a long way.
