Shesterkin Leaves Rangers Game With Right Leg Injury

The New York Rangers lost starting goaltender Igor Shesterkin to an apparent right leg injury during their game against the Washington Capitals on Friday, October 9, 2026. The incident occurred in the second period in Washington, when Shesterkin collapsed after appearing to strike his right skate against the goalpost while recovering from a scramble outside his crease. According to Sports Yahoo, Shesterkin was playing during a Rangers power play when the puck came loose near the goal.

He moved back toward the crease before appearing to hit the post with his right skate and falling to the ice. Team trainers attended to the goaltender, and his teammates helped him leave the playing surface. Shesterkin appeared unable to put weight on his right leg as he departed, raising concerns about the extent of the injury.

Sports Yahoo reported that the nature and severity of the injury had not been confirmed. The available information did not establish a diagnosis or indicate how long Shesterkin might be unavailable.

The injury comes as the Rangers have opened the 2026-27 season strongly, with Shesterkin playing a significant role in the team's early performance. His condition could affect the team's goaltending options if he is unable to return. Dylan Garand is listed as Shesterkin's backup on the Rangers' goaltending depth chart, according to Sports Yahoo. Garand was selected in the fourth round of the 2020 draft.

The Rangers also acquired Joonas Korpisalo during the offseason, but Sports Yahoo reported that he is dealing with an injury as well. His availability could therefore be a factor in the team's options while Shesterkin's condition remains uncertain. No confirmed diagnosis or further medical details were available in the report published by Sports Yahoo on October 10, 2026.