Peter Laviolette reveals Igor Shesterkin's next big steps in returning to the New York Rangers lineup
Photo credit: Bleacher Report
was seen practicing on the ice with the New York Rangers this Wednesday. While we don't want to give anyone false hope, there's no confirmation he'll slot into the lineup on Saturday against the Buffalo Sabres.
Igor Shesterkin has remained out of the New York Rangers lineup after he sustained an upper-body injury during a 3-2 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins.
The loss was only compounded, as the team lost their starting goalie.
Hopeful news was reported, as Tuesday Head Coach Peter Laviolette stated that Shesterkin was skating of his own accord.
Now, with Shesterkin practicing the day afterward, could we see him return to the Rangers lineup soon?
Since Shesterkin's remained out of the lineup, the team has had to call up Dylan Garand from the AHL's Hartford Wolfpack, while Jonathan Quick has taken over netminding duties.
A day later, Shesterkin took part in the first 30 minutes of practice before he left the ice, which was pre planned. Dylan Garand, called up from Hartford of the American Hockey League on Tuesday, took over Shesterkin's net and finished practice with Jonathan Quick working the other end of the rink.
Shesterkin was thought to only miss two weeks after his upper-body injury was diagnosed.
Now, we're on the cusp of two weeks since his removal from the lineup.
If Shesterkin were to come back soon, he'd have to be eased back into the net, as the team has a busy schedule coming up.
They face the Buffalo Sabres, Pittsburgh Penguins, and New York Islanders, with only a small break in between the three matches.
For a team that hasn't been the best in front of Shesterkin this season, it'd be a fool's errand to rush him back so soon.
The Rangers defense has been a sieve, and Shesty himself has allowed four or more goals thirteen-times this season.
Shesterkin is 18-19-2 in 39 games this season with a 2.87 goals-against average, .906 save percentage and three shutouts.
He'll need to do more in order to help the Rangers win a spot in the playoffs, and the Rangers need to play better hockey in front of him.
Previously on NYRangersInsider
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