Rangers Shut Out Sabres in Season Opener
Key Moments
The New York Rangers kicked off their season with a 4-0 victory over the Buffalo Sabres on Thursday night. Alexis Lafrenière opened the scoring midway through the first period, giving the Rangers an early lead they would not relinquish.
Despite being outshot 37-32, Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin was stellar, stopping all 37 shots he faced for his first shutout of the season. The game remained a one-goal affair until late in the third period, when Carson Soucy and J.T. Miller added insurance goals for New York.
Player Impact
Shesterkin's performance was the story of the night, as the Rangers' star netminder was the difference-maker. "We did a great job tonight, played an awesome game," Shesterkin said after the victory. "I'm really happy with how we played."
Lafrenière's opening tally proved to be the game-winner, continuing his strong start to the season. The young winger has quickly emerged as a key piece of the Rangers' lineup.
Looking Ahead
The win was an important one for new Rangers head coach Mike Sullivan, who earned his first victory with the team. "It's humbling," Sullivan said of getting the game puck. "I'm really proud of the way our guys played tonight."
The Rangers will look to build on this result as they continue their early-season road trip. Meanwhile, the Sabres will aim to rebound from the loss in their home opener.
TL;DR
- The New York Rangers defeated the Buffalo Sabres 4-0 in their season opener.
- Goaltender Igor Shesterkin recorded a 37-save shutout for the Rangers.
- Alexis Lafrenière scored the opening goal for New York.
- It was the first win as Rangers head coach for Mike Sullivan.