The New York Rangers start a new stretch with goaltender Igor Shesterkin expected to carry significant load, as multiple outlets point to defensive issues that require immediate coverage. Both reports note that Shesterkin does not have much time to shake off rust compared with teammates.
The context highlighted across the sources is that the team’s preseason is described as truncated. While other players are portrayed as using preseason action to get up to speed, the goaltender’s limited time in that same phase leaves him facing regular-season expectations right away. The outlets frame the situation as one where Shesterkin’s performance is particularly important because the defense is not fully addressing its problems before the season begins.
Overall, the coverage converges on the same general premise: Shesterkin’s workload and focus on preventing goals early are tied to concerns about defensive reliability and the short runway provided by preseason.
