The Utah Mammoth defeated the New York Rangers 3-2 in overtime at Madison Square and Garden on Monday, Jan. 5, 2026, extending their undefeated streak in New York despite a significant injury to Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin.
Shesterkin Suffers Injury
The contest was interrupted with seven minutes remaining in the first period when Shesterkin sustained a lower-body injury. According to NHL.com, the goaltender required assistance off the ice and was replaced by Jonathan Quick.
Utah forward JJ Peterka made minimal contact with Shesterkin in the crease during the incident. The goalie, positioned in a split stance, fell backward and showed signs of significant pain, according to reporting by Dan Rosen for NHL.com.
Rangers React to Injury
Rangers head coach Mike Sullivan stated following the game that Shesterkin was undergoing evaluation to determine the extent of the injury. Sullivan noted that further tests were expected to reveal the seriousness of the situation.
Head athletic trainer Andy Hosler checked on the goaltender on the ice before Shesterkin was helped toward the tunnel by defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov and the trainer. Rangers center Mika Zibanejad described the incident as a difficult sight for the team.
Goaltending Performance
In relief of Shesterkin, who recorded nine saves before his exit, Jonathan Quick made 14 saves during the game. The loss brought the Rangers' recent performance into focus as they prepared for a scheduled Thursday matchup against the Buffalo Sabres.
At the time of the injury, Shesterkin held an NHL-leading 34-game record of 17-12-4 with a 2.45 goals-against average and a .913 save percentage.
Mammoth Season Outlook
The Utah Mammoth continue to prepare for their upcoming 2026-27 regular season, which includes a scheduled lineup of games recently announced by the team. The franchise has highlighted player transitions and new opportunities within the roster as they look toward the next campaign.
Looking Ahead
As the Mammoth move forward with their season schedule, the team remains focused on upcoming divisional matchups following their recent success in New York.
