Hextall Reflects on Shesterkin’s Rare Goalie Goal
Ron Hextall, the first NHL goalie credited with shooting a puck into the net for a goal, commented on Igor Shesterkin’s empty-net goal for the Rangers against the Lightning. Hextall said he was happy for Shesterkin and enjoyed the Rangers’ bench reaction, which reminded him of his own 1987 goal. Shesterkin became the 12th goalie in NHL history to score and the first Ranger to do so, sealing a 5-1 home-opener win.
Hextall’s own milestone came on Dec. 8, 1987, when he scored into an empty Boston net during a 5-2 Philadelphia win. He later added a playoff empty-netter on April 11, 1989, in Washington, closing an 8-5 Game 5 victory in the Patrick Division Semifinals. He remains the only NHL goalie to score by shooting the puck in both the regular season and playoffs.
Shesterkin’s tally was the 21st goalie goal in league history, recorded by the 18th different netminder; 19 came in the regular season and two in the playoffs. Hextall, who has watched Shesterkin while leading Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, praised his confidence and skill and disagreed with teams that avoid smaller goalies.
Shesterkin’s rare goal may give Rangers fans a memorable home-opener moment and could draw casual viewers to hockey through highlight reels. It might also inspire young goalies to practice puck handling, since coaches increasingly emphasize that skill. For the league, such moments could generate short-term social media attention and reinforce goaltenders as potential playmakers, though the broader effect on participation or viewership is likely limited.