The New York Rangers announced earlier today that they placed goaltender Igor Shesterkin on injured reserve. That move is per the CBA a minimum seven days.
This evening, prior to the game against the Chicago Blackhawks, head coach Gerard Gallant provided an update.
Rangers expect Shesterkin to be back in a week
“We feel real comfortable he’ll be ready to go in a week,” Gallant said.
Shesterkin was injured at 5:08 of the third period of last night’s 1-0 win over the San Jose Sharks. The 25 year-old was dealing with an apparent right leg injury and had to be helped off the ice. He stopped all 19 shots he faced before leaving the game.
The head coach also didn’t provide any specifics. “It’s not a concern, we’re going to play,” Gallant said of losing his #1. “Every team loses players and star players and that’s part of it. We don’t think it’s anything.”
Gallant confident in Georgiev
Alexandar Georgiev is 2-1-1 with a GAA of 3.89 and a SV% of .867 on the season. After struggling to get playing time, he should likely start the next three games beginning tonight at MSG against the Blackhawks.
“He made three great saves, especially coming in on that power play,” Gallant said after beating the Sharks. “He looked solid, I was really happy. It was a good opportunity for him to step up.”
Going forward, the head coach has confidence in what Georgiev can do and sees this as a great opportunity.
“I am confident in the kid,” Gallant said. “Last night he went in and did a great job. He’s worked hard in practice, so now he gets the opportunity. I hope he takes advantage of it.”
Rangers vs Blackhawks Matchup
Here are some key stats for tonight’s matchup courtesy of The Daily Goal Horn.
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