Igor Shesterkin, the New York Rangers' undisputed backbone between the pipes, may feel like a veteran presence, but he's still very much in the prime of his career. Born on December 30, 1995, Shesterkin hails from Moscow, Russia, making him 28 years old as of late 2023 and heading into his late 20s. His journey to NHL stardom wasn't a sudden explosion but a meticulously built foundation, starting with a dominant run in Russia's Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). Drafted by the Rangers in the fourth round (118th overall) of the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, Shesterkin honed his craft with SKA Saint Petersburg, consistently posting elite numbers and securing multiple Gagarin Cup titles, showcasing his immense talent long before crossing the Atlantic.
From KHL Standout to Vezina Winner
Shesterkin's highly anticipated move to North America came in the 2019-2020 season. He began his tenure with the AHL's Hartford Wolf Pack, where he put up remarkable statistics, proving he was more than ready for the NHL. His NHL debut arrived on January 7, 2020, and it didn't take long for him to establish himself as a legitimate starter. Over the next couple of seasons, he gradually took over the number one job from fellow Russian netminder Alexandar Georgiev, impressing fans and pundits alike with his athleticism, calm demeanor, and incredible glove hand.
The 2021-2022 season marked Shesterkin's true breakout, solidifying his status as one of the league's elite. He led the NHL in both save percentage (.935) and goals-against average (2.07), ultimately earning him the prestigious Vezina Trophy as the league's best goaltender, and he was also a finalist for the Hart Trophy. Since then, Shesterkin has continued to be a pivotal force for the Rangers, leading them deep into the playoffs and consistently delivering highlight-reel saves. His career timeline reflects a steady climb from a promising draft pick to an undisputed superstar, with his best years potentially still ahead of him.
Trade on Every Game with Kalshi
Click Here to sign up to Kalshi — Free $10 when you sign up using our link or use code: ONTAPSEA. The only federally regulated prediction market in the US. Trade on real sports outcomes. Available in all 50 states.