Shesterkin Leads Rangers Into Capitals Matchup

New York Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin will start against the Washington Capitals on the road after opening the 2026-27 NHL season with three wins in four appearances. The decision was confirmed before the teams met in Washington.

According to Sports Yahoo and The New York Post report cited by Mollie Walker, Rangers coach Mike Sullivan selected Shesterkin for his fifth start of the season.

Shesterkin entered the matchup with a 3-1-0 record, 1.75 goals-against average and .926 save percentage. Sports Yahoo reported he had not allowed more than two goals in any start.

Sports Illustrated reported that Shesterkin led the NHL with four games played, three wins, 88 saves and 239:21 of ice time entering play on Oct. 7.

According to NHL.com information cited by Sports Illustrated, Shesterkin had recorded 172 career games allowing two or fewer goals. That total was tied for fourth most among goaltenders since the 2019-20 season.

The Rangers have relied heavily on Shesterkin after his importance was highlighted during the previous campaign. Sports Illustrated reported he started 51 games in 2025-26 and posted a 25-19-6 record.

Sports Yahoo reported Shesterkin has also produced strong results against Washington. In 16 previous meetings with the Capitals, he held a 10-5-1 record with a .915 save percentage and 2.62 goals-against average.

Rotowire reported Shesterkin won his last three starts after losing on opening night against Boston. During those victories, he posted a 1.67 goals-against average and .932 save percentage.

The Hockey News ranked Shesterkin 51st on its list of the NHL's top 80 players. Adam Proteau cited the goaltender's Vezina Trophy history and career consistency.

"As a Vezina Trophy winner, the 30-year-old Shesterkin doesn’t need to prove anything to anyone – although he might have something to prove in the playoffs. But if you examine Shesterkin’s career numbers, you’ll see his consistency is outstanding," wrote Adam Proteau, writer for The Hockey News.

Shesterkin has contributed beyond goaltending during the Rangers' early-season run. Sports Illustrated reported he became the first Rangers goaltender to score a goal when he sent an empty-net shot against Tampa Bay.

Sports Yahoo reported New York maintained its recent lineup approach against Washington, with optional morning skate participation from several players. The team had 14 skaters on the ice, including J.T. Miller, Oliver Bjorkstrand and Will Cuylle.

Several regular players were absent from the optional skate, including Mika Zibanejad, Alexis Lafreniere, Adam Fox, Marcus Pettersson and Sean Durzi. Shesterkin remained the confirmed starter for the matchup.