Here's why the Rangers shouldn't overuse Igor Shesterkin this early in the season.
Igor Shesterin is burned out already just a dozen games into the season.
At least that's The Maven's view, but we'll know better on Saturday night at Detroit's Little Caesars Arena where the Blueshirts had better skate out of their funk.
Losing 6-1 to Buffalo at The Garden on Thursday night raises several issues about the Blueshirts and it all starts in goal.
Although the Rangers 8-3-1 record is one of the best in the league, it's out and out deceptive. New York's schedule has been top heavy with Humpty non-playoff teams like Buffalo.
Since the Blueshirts are near the top of the standings, contention today is not the problem. Teams who – like the Rangers – have played a dozen games such as Florida (10-2-0) and Washington (8-3-1) are within catching distance.
What matters is the cause behind the 6-1 thrashing on Thursday night at home.
"Igor is not a miracle worker" was one of the comments post-game. Yes, Shesterkin has seen plenty of flak but the question is why it might have worn him down so early in the season.
Whether it has or has not, it behooves Laviolette to insert Quick in the crease on Saturday. Give Jonathan one of the easier teams because next up at MSG on Tuesday are the Jets who have won 13 out of their 14 games; repeat thirteen out of 14.
"We have Connor Hellebuyck, the best goalie in the league," says Winnipeg's Gabe Vilardi. Hellebuyck underlined that point with a 1-0 win over Colorado on Thursday night.
Apart from selecting a goaltender, Laviolette has to figure out line changes and return to the ones which have worked so far. (Makes sense, no?)
One of my "Game-Watchers," David Perlmutter of New Rochelle, writes:
"Laviolette should leave the second line as it is since it's been by far the most effective. My choice for the second line would have Filip Chytil centering Chris Kreider and Will Cuylle."
What about the Problem Child?
"Put Mika on the third line with Reilly Smith and Kaapo Kakko."
The Maven would bench Lindgren until he's fully – not half-full – ready to plan. Lavvy should give Zac Jones and Victor Mancini as much ice as possible – with Quick between the pipes.
Since nothing worked on Thursday in New York, this might on Saturday in Motor City.
