Rangers’ goalie competition is taking shape as Joonas Korpisalo nears return

New York Rangers goaltender Joonas Korpisalo is taking a major step toward making his team debut after recovering from a foot infection. The Rangers assigned Korpisalo to their AHL affiliate, the Hartford Wolf Pack, for a conditioning stint starting Wednesday against the Hershey Bears. His return creates an upcoming competition in net alongside Dylan Garand after starting goalie Igor Shesterkin was ruled out for the remainder of the season with a knee injury.

Garand has handled primary starting duties in Shesterkin's absence, recently stopping 32 shots in a 3-1 victory over the St. Louis Blues to bring his season save percentage to .905. Korpisalo was acquired during the offseason from the Boston Bruins in exchange for a prospect and a fourth-round pick. Blue Line Station notes that if Korpisalo struggles upon his return, the Rangers could seek another goalie via trade before the deadline.