Goalie Shesterkin notches empty-netter in Rangers' victory
Igor Shesterkin scores first goalie goal in Rangers' history (0:55)
ESPN News Services
Oct 1, 2026, 10:12 PM ET
NEW YORK -- Igor Shesterkin of the New York Rangers became the 18th different goaltender in NHL history to score a goal when he shot the puck into an empty net late in a 5-1 victory against Tampa Bay on Thursday night.
Shesterkin was mobbed by celebrating teammates after scoring with 2:34 left. He skated to the bench at the front of the line of players to fist-bump teammates on the bench and was serenaded by chants of "Igor! Igor!" from fans delighted to see him finally cash in.
Shesterkin's goal was the first by a Rangers goaltender in franchise history, according to ESPN Research. It was the 21st goalie goal in NHL history.
Shesterkin has been known to try his hand at scoring before. Lightning coach Jon Cooper gave him the opportunity Thursday night by pulling Andrei Vasilevskiy off and on during the third period for an extra attacker.
Shesterkin was also terrific at the other end, stopping 24 of the 25 shots he faced. He was named the first star of the game.
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