As the New York Rangers prepare for their 100th season in the NHL, expectations are sky-high for nearly every player on the roster. But no one enters the 2025–26 campaign with more on their shoulders than star goaltender Igor Shesterkin.
Time to Step Into the Spotlight
This is the moment for Shesterkin to rise above the rest and fully take on the role once held by franchise legend Henrik Lundqvist. While matching Lundqvist’s legacy is no small feat, Shesterkin has the chance to carve out his own era of greatness and possibly surpass it.
With critics doubting the Rangers’ ability to compete this season, all eyes are on Shesterkin to be the catalyst for a turnaround. If he wants to be considered in the same conversation as Lundqvist, two milestones remain: winning a Stanley Cup in New York or breaking the franchise’s all-time wins record.
Expectations for 2025–26: Nothing Less Than Elite
After a somewhat underwhelming 2024–25 by his standards, Shesterkin still performed better than most goalies in the league. But this season, expectations are higher than ever. He’ll need to notch at least 35 wins, push for a career-high in shutouts (currently six), and be the team’s most consistent difference-maker.
The Rangers have also added Vladislav Gavrikov to bolster the blue line, which should help Shesterkin regain top form. With the improved defense in front of him, this could be the year he delivers a Vezina Trophy-caliber performance.
In short, anything less than brilliance from Shesterkin will be viewed as a letdown. As the centennial season kicks off, he isn’t just chasing individual accolades—he’s carrying the hopes of a franchise aiming to reclaim its place among the NHL elite.
