Shesterkin first off ice, expected to start Thursday

Igor Shesterkin was the first goaltender off the ice at morning practice on Thursday, indicating he will start in goal for the New York Rangers in their visiting crease in Colorado, as reported by Colin Stephenson of Newsday. Heading into 2024-25, there is chatter about a contract extension, with Shesterkin reportedly seeking max money to become the highest-paid netminder in the NHL. He is considered a consistent, elite goaltender, a beast in the postseason, and was a potential first-round fantasy pick. In 2022-23, he posted a 2.48 GAA, .916 save percentage, and a 37-13-8 record. A season prior, he led the league with a 2.07 GAA and .935 save percentage, adding 36 victories and six shutouts, earning him the Vezina Trophy and a third-place finish in Hart Trophy voting. He will be backed up by Jonathan Quick this year, with a clear path to 60 games if healthy.