New York Rangers playoff hopes renewed thanks to one player
The New York Rangers appear to be revitalized more like the team they were early on in October as their playoff hopes have been renewed thanks to the play of Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin.
The Rangers turn around has been remarkable as the team has gone on a 10-game point streak and since January 5th they have a record of 7-0-3 which puts them with 17 points in 10 games.
Playoffs may be back on as Rangers surge in the standings
Shesterkin seems to have turned the page on their disastrous December as he has only allowed one goal in 10 periods of hockey and has looked like the superstar that they have expected especially signing his major contract extension.
Many pundits and fans felt that the Rangers we're going to continue to slide out and potentially be a seller at the March trade deadline. That does not appear to be the case as they're currently sitting ninth in the Eastern Conference and are only one point behind the Columbus Blue Jackets for the second wild card spot.
Rangers likely to by buyers at trade deadline
With so much season still to play and a two week break that's coming in February, this will give the Rangers ample opportunity to analyze their team and decide which way they want to move.
General manager Chris Drury may still have the motive to make more moves at the deadline but it's likely he will try to add this time rather than subtract as the team has found its groove again.
No matter the case, the New York Rangers playoff hopes this year will be tide to one person as Shesterkin's play will dictate the outcome and it seems he has found his game again and has decided to put the team on his back as they continue to sort themselves out and string more wins together.
