Overview
- He left late in the first period after a net-front play involving Utah’s J.J. Peterka, was in visible pain, and was helped off without putting weight on his left leg.
- The Rangers announced he would not return to the game, and head coach Mike Sullivan said further tests are underway and expressed hope the injury is not serious.
- Jonathan Quick entered in relief, made 14 saves, and finished a 3-2 overtime loss, positioning the veteran to handle the near-term workload.
- With uncertainty around Shesterkin’s availability, reporters note the club could recall an AHL goaltender to back up Quick, with Dylan Garand and Spencer Martin cited as candidates.
- A medical reviewer suggested the mechanism looked like a possible groin strain and potentially non-contact, which remains unconfirmed, as analysts warn a prolonged absence could affect playoff hopes and trade-deadline plans.