The New York Rangers routed the Ottawa Senators 5-0 on Tuesday night at Madison Square Garden, but the game’s flashpoint came in the 3rd period when Rangers star goalie Igor Shesterkin charged out of his crease to fight Senators captain Brady Tkachuk. The rare goalie fight punctuated an otherwise dominant performance by the home team.
Shesterkin Shines, Then Drops Gloves
Shesterkin, the reigning Vezina Trophy winner as the NHL’s top goaltender, made 20 saves to record his 3rd shutout of the season and 18th of his young career. But it was his willingness to stand up for himself that had the Garden faithful roaring in the 3rd period.
With the Rangers leading 3-0 and just under 13 minutes remaining, a scrum broke out in front of Shesterkin’s net involving several players, centered around the agitating Tkachuk. The Russian netminder appeared shaken up while kneeling in his crease as the scuffle moved toward the boards. Suddenly, Shesterkin sprang to his feet and made a beeline for Tkachuk, surprising the Senators winger with a couple quick jabs before the linesmen intervened.
I just got a couple punches from Tkachuk. To be honest, there was a hit on me (before the whistle), and I didn’t really enjoy it. So, I just wanted to go over and hold him, and if he wanted to fight, it’s tough for me, because I cannot drop my gloves.
Igor Shesterkin on the altercation with Brady Tkachuk
Teammates, Coach Applaud Shesterkin’s Fire
Rangers enforcer Matt Rempe, who was in the midst of the fracas, admitted being nervous seeing his star goalie mixing it up, but loved the competitive spirit.
I was a little nervous because I don’t want anything to happen to him. But I love it because he’s a competitor, and I just wanted to make sure I get in there and nothing happens to him.
Matt Rempe on Shesterkin fighting Tkachuk
Head coach Peter Laviolette also appreciated his goalie’s fire, telling reporters “that’s hockey, man” when asked about the rare fight.
Lafreniere, Panarin Lead Blueshirts Attack
On the scoresheet, it was Alexis Lafreniere leading the way with a goal and an assist. The 2020 1st overall pick opened the scoring late in the 1st period and helped set up Artemi Panarin’s power play marker in the 3rd.
Other Rangers goal scorers included:
- Arthur Kaliyev (2nd as a Ranger)
- Matt Rempe (1st of the season)
- Will Cuylle (3rd of the season)
The 5-0 victory extends the Rangers’ strong run to 7-1-3 since January 2nd. They’ve now won 3 straight home games heading into the All-Star break.
Senators Stymied
For the Senators, the loss halted a 5-0-1 stretch over their previous 6 games. Ottawa failed to solve Shesterkin all night, with forwards Brady Tkachuk and Tim Stützle both having goals disallowed due to offside infractions.
Rookie goaltender Leevi Merilainen made 14 saves on 16 shots before being pulled early in the 2nd period for Anton Forsberg. The Senators’ backup stopped 10 of the 13 shots he faced in relief.
Rangers Riding High Into Break
The emphatic win, punctuated by their star goalie’s fighting spirit, sends the Rangers soaring into the All-Star break on a high note. They’ll look to build on their strong January run when play resumes in February.
For the Senators, it’s an opportunity to regroup after seeing their streak snapped in fiery fashion at the Garden. They’ll aim to recapture their winning form on the other side of the break.
