Shesterkin Finally Lands NHL Goalie Goal in Rangers' 5-1 Home Opener Win

Key points

• Shesterkin scored into an empty net with 2:34 left in the third period, making him the 18th goalie in NHL history to score a goal.
• The goal was the first in New York Rangers franchise history, ending a long streak of near-misses that had become a recurring theme for the team.
• Shesterkin recorded 24 saves on 25 shots, earning first star of the game, and was mobbed by teammates and cheered by fans at Madison Square Garden.
• The 5-1 victory over Tampa Bay was the Rangers' season opener and their first home win, addressing concerns about their poor home ice performance from the previous season.
• Tampa Bay coach Jon Cooper pulled his goaltender for an extra attacker in the third period, creating the opportunity for Shesterkin's goal.

Background

This event follows a period of poor home-ice performance for the New York Rangers in the previous season, which had become a defining trait of the team. The win and Shesterkin's goal were seen as a significant morale boost and a symbolic end to that difficult stretch, with captain J.T. Miller noting the team owed the fans a strong start to the season.

How outlets are covering it

Defector emphasized the historical rarity of goalie goals, noting only 21 have been scored in NHL history by 18 different goalies, and highlighted Shesterkin's long-standing pursuit of this feat, including his previous near-misses and his junior career goal. CBC focused on the factual milestone of Shesterkin becoming the 18th goalie to score, detailing the specific circumstances of the goal and his 24-save performance. The New York Post framed the game as a critical home opener, emphasizing the team's need to overcome their previous season's home ice struggles and the significance of the win for fan morale.

Why it matters

The goal represents a rare historical milestone in the NHL and a symbolic victory for the Rangers, addressing fan frustration over their previous home ice performance. It highlights the unique dynamics of goalie goals and the long-standing pursuit of such feats by elite netminders.

What to watch

Shesterkin has vowed to continue attempting to score, and the Rangers will look to build on this positive start to the season, particularly at home, to avoid repeating the struggles of the previous year.