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3 Key Things the Rangers Need to Accomplish Before the Playoffs

The Rangers seemingly have the pieces to win the Stanley Cup, however prior to the playoffs there are a few things this team still needs to show.

By Nicholas Rome

Mar 17, 2024; New York, New York, USA; New York Rangers center Jonny Brodzinski (22) celebrates his
Mar 17, 2024; New York, New York, USA; New York Rangers center Jonny Brodzinski (22) celebrates his / Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
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2. Continued Dominance From Igor Shesterkin

Mar 23, 2024; New York, New York, USA; New York Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin (31) makes a save
Mar 23, 2024; New York, New York, USA; New York Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin (31) makes a save / Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports

Prior to the All-Star break, the struggles of Igor Shesterkin were alarming as the team eventually needed to turn to Jonathan Quick to give Shesterkin a break. Goalie coach Benoit Allaire worked with Shesterkin during his short hiatus and ever since the All-Star break the former Vezina winner has returned to his dominant form. Prior to the All-Star Game Shesterkin had a 19-12 record, with a .899 save percentage, and a 2.86 Goals Allowed Average.

Since the All-Star break, Shesterkin has stacked dominant February and March performances. In February Shesterkin went 7-0 with a 1.72 GAA and a save percentage of .953. In March, Shesterkin has gone 4-3 with a 2.35 GAA, and a .916 save percentage while facing some of the league's top teams.

As seen with Henrik Lundqvist in the past, hot goaltending rules in the postseason and could elevate a team's chances at a Stanley Cup.

The Rangers will need a dominant postseason from Igor if they're going to win their first Stanley Cup since 1994. As the team's playoff spot is secured Peter Laviolette will likely look to spell Shesterkin before the post season ensuring his health.

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