Shesterkin Injury Leaves Rangers With Goaltending Concerns

The New York Rangers lost goaltender Igor Shesterkin after he suffered an apparent right leg injury against the Washington Capitals, forcing Dylan Garand into action as the team continued a strong start to the 2026-27 season.

Shesterkin was hurt during a second-period scramble near the net when his right skate appeared to catch against the goalpost while he attempted a save, according to Bleacher Report and USA Today.

The Rangers star was helped from the ice by teammates and staff after appearing unable to put weight on his right leg. USA Today reported that Shesterkin stopped 13 of the 14 shots he faced before leaving the game.

Garand replaced Shesterkin with the score tied 1-1 and 11:40 remaining in the second period, according to Bleacher Report. The substitution marked Garand's fifth appearance at the NHL level.

Shesterkin had been a key part of New York's early success, with the Rangers entering the matchup at 4-1-0. Bleacher Report said the goaltender posted a .926 save percentage and allowed 1.75 goals per game through his first four starts.

The Rangers are also dealing with injuries elsewhere in their goaltending group. Bleacher Report reported that backup Joonas Korpisalo was placed on injured reserve after the season opener because of a lower-body injury.

Rangers coach Mike Sullivan said Korpisalo had not resumed skating as of Thursday, according to Mollie Walker of the New York Post. The team also has AHL goaltender Spencer Martin listed as day-to-day with a lower-body injury.

Those absences could leave New York relying on Garand and Callum Tung, who started for the AHL's Hartford Wolf Pack when Martin was unavailable, according to Bleacher Report. Tung has not made his Rangers debut.

The Rangers had not provided an official update on Shesterkin's status after his exit. The team was scheduled to face the Vancouver Canucks in its next matchup, according to Bleacher Report.