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New York Rangers: Henrik Lundqvist Reaches Milestone

By Nick Ziegler

Feb 11, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Rangers goaltender Henrik Lundqvist (30) waves to the fans after defeating the Colorado Avalanche 4-2 at Madison Square Garden. The win was Lundqvist's 400th NHL win. Mandatory Credit: Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 11, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Rangers goaltender Henrik Lundqvist (30) waves to the fans after defeating the Colorado Avalanche 4-2 at Madison Square Garden. The win was Lundqvist's 400th NHL win. Mandatory Credit: Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports /
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New York Rangers goalie Henrik Lundqvist was able to win his 400th game on Saturday. In doing do, he joins an exclusive club.

It has been a fantastic career for New York Rangers goalie Henrik Lundqvist. Since becoming the goalie for the Rangers, many have called Lundqvist the best goalie in the NHL for many years.

Despite his success, Lundqvist has had some struggles this season. In what has been arguably the worst season of his career, Lundqvist has totaled a 2.68 GAA. This is by far the worst number in his career, and his save percentage is also at a career-low.

Against the Colorado Avalanche, Lundqvist had his eyes set on winning his 400th career game. In the Rangers’ 4-2 win, Lundqvist certainly played well, as he saved 34 of 36 shots in the win. After the game, Lundqvist couldn’t have been happier.

"“I’m just really proud and really thankful for the opportunity,” he said to Steve Zipay of Newsday.com. “This organization means so much to me. I will definitely enjoy this tonight and reflect a little bit. I had a lot of good teammates and you think back to them because they’re part of it as well.”"

Lundqvist has played some big games for the Rangers, but this one was a special one. Winning 400 games is certainly an accomplishment of both his dominance and his durability. As his 400th win approached, the Garden got loud.

"“That last couple minutes, you hear the crowd, you get goosebumps. It was like my first game here 12 years ago, when they chanted my name. At times it feels surreal that you’re in that moment, that you’re here and playing, and at times you look at it as your job because you don’t want to complicate it. I’ve had so much fun here over the years. When you win here, at MSG, the crowd is really into it and it’s just the best feeling. That’s why you go to work every morning.”"

Now that Lundqvist has reached this milestone, he will have his eyes set on winning the Stanley Cup. While Lundqvist has achieved plenty of individual success, the Stanley Cup has eluded him. The Rangers are certainly capable of contending this season, but they will need Lundqvist to be excellent.

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