Rangers Face Goalie Shortage After Shesterkin Suffers Injury

The New York Rangers are facing uncertainty in goal after Igor Shesterkin sustained a lower-body injury during Friday's 3-1 loss to the Washington Capitals. Dylan Garand replaced the injured starter midway through the second period, while Callum Tung recorded his first professional shutout for AHL Hartford, potentially positioning both goaltenders for increased responsibility. According to CBS Sports on October 10, Garand stopped 11 of 12 shots in relief as Washington secured the victory.

The Rangers' immediate goaltending options are limited because Joonas Korpisalo and Spencer Martin are also dealing with lower-body injuries. Garand entered with the score tied 1-1 and played 29:45. He conceded the eventual game-winning goal to Boone Jenner at 17:38 of the second period before Washington added an empty-net goal to complete the 3-1 result, according to CBS Sports.

The 24-year-old finished with a .917 save percentage. CBS Sports reported that Garand could receive additional starts if Shesterkin requires an extended recovery period, with Sunday's game against the Vancouver Canucks identified as a possible opportunity.

Meanwhile, Tung strengthened his case for a call-up by stopping all 28 shots in Hartford's 2-0 victory over Providence on Friday. CBS Sports reported that the performance marked Tung's first career shutout and came as the Rangers dealt with multiple injuries among their goaltenders. Tung and Garand are the only healthy goaltenders under NHL contracts available to the Rangers, according to CBS Sports. The team's next decision depends on Shesterkin's injury update and the availability of its other injured netminders.

If Shesterkin cannot return in time, Tung could be recalled before Sunday's matchup against Vancouver. Garand also remains a potential starter, leaving the Rangers to assess their available options as they await further information about Shesterkin's condition.