New York Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin left Friday night's game against the Washington Capitals with a lower-body injury and did not return. The 2021-22 Vezina Trophy winner was helped off the ice by teammates after appearing to jam his right leg against the post during a second-period scramble.
Shesterkin entered the contest with a 3-1 record, a .926 save percentage, and a 1.75 goals against average. The Rangers, who led the Eastern Conference into the matchup, were tied 1-1 when the incident occurred. Shesterkin slid across the crease to the far post and appeared unable to put weight on his right leg. He was confirmed out of the game later in the contest.
Dylan Garand, who has played in four NHL games, entered in relief. While Garand performed well initially, Boone Jenner scored late in the second period to give the Capitals the win. The injury has sparked discussion on social media regarding a perceived curse affecting New York sports teams following the New York Knicks' NBA title victory. Fans have linked the incident to previous injuries sustained by Yankees star Aaron Judge and Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart. The Rangers will assess the severity of Shesterkin's injury as they navigate the loss of their starting goaltender.