Rangers injured Igor Shesterkin progressing; Gallant hints at possible return next week
The New York Rangers number one goaltender Igor Shesterkin was back to the ice again today. This time it wasn’t just doing some stretches as he took shots at the end of the morning skate.
Shesterkin was eligible to come off IR on Friday in Buffalo, but he is still on the mend. Alexandar Georgiev was the first goalie off today, which is an indication on whom the starter against Nashville will be.
Igor Shesterkin possibly back next week
“He looked fine,” head coach Gerard Gallant said of his number one today. “He’s on the ice, so everything is going according to plan. The trainers will tell me when he’s ready.”
Igor Shesterkin had to be helped off the ice at 5:08 of the third period in a win over the San Jose Sharks earlier this month. The 25 year-old netminder was dealing with a lower-body injury after making a save and diving on the rebound during a scrum in front of the net. He appeared unable to put weight on his right leg.
Shesterkin is 13-3-2 with a .937 SV% and a 2.05 GAA on the season.
Initially when Gallant was asked about Shesterkin he joked, “Who?”
The veteran bench boss tends to jab with the press over repeated questions, but he also hinted at when we may see his goalie will return.
“We’re with Igor next week when he’s ready – whenever he’s ready to play.”
Ryan Strome and Nils Lundkvist did not partake in the morning skate but according to the coach they will be a go for tonight.
“They’re just doing maintenance,” the head coach said. “We expect them to play.”
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