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Hockey (NHL) · Goaltending · published 2026-10-02T00:00:00+00:00 · via Gino Hard

Shesterkin Makes Rangers History With Empty-Net Goal

Image via Gino Hard
Image via Gino Hard

Igor Shesterkin scored an empty-net goal in the Rangers' 5-1 home opener win over Tampa Bay, the first goalie goal in franchise history. The tally came with 2:34 remaining after the Lightning pulled Andrei Vasilevskiy. Shesterkin also stopped 24 of 25 shots and earned first-star honors.

Expanded Detail

Shesterkin scored with 2:34 left in New York's home opener, after Tampa Bay pulled Vasilevskiy for an extra skater while trailing 4-1. The puck went in untouched, so no assist was awarded. It was the first goal by a Rangers goaltender in franchise history and Shesterkin's first NHL tally. He also stopped 24 of 25 shots and earned first-star honors.

The Rangers also got goals from Zibanejad, Dorofeyev, Tolvanen and Perreault, bouncing back from a season-opening loss to Boston. In 2023, an NHL.com poll of goalies often picked Shesterkin to score next. Sorokin beat him in March 2025, getting credit after Stamkos' pass entered Nashville's empty net.

Context

This rare goalie goal may give Rangers fans a memorable home-opener moment and could draw extra attention from casual hockey viewers through highlight clips.

Expanded detail and Context are AI-generated analysis; the linked article remains the authoritative source.
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This summary is Al-enhanced to contain extended analysis and broader social context. The original is {NAME); the linked article is the authoritative source. Original headline: “Igor Shesterkin Goal: First Goalie Goal in Rangers History.” Browse more stories.