News: Shesterkin Unfit to Play; Lundqvist to Start Game 1

The 2020 Playoffs start with a big curveball.

Per the MSG Network, goaltender Igor Shesterkin has been deemed “unfit to play” which means Henrik Lundqvist will be the New York Rangers starter for Game 1 against the Carolina Hurricanes. Alexandar Georgiev will serve as the team’s backup.

This just in: Shesterkin “unfit to play” so it is Lundqvist in nets v Canes. Georgiev backup. Shesterkin condition believed unrelated to COVID. May have suffered injury at Friday practice or Wednesday v NYI.

— Larry Brooks (@NYP_Brooksie) August 1, 2020

Larry Brooks is reporting that Shesterkin’s condition is believed to be unrelated to COVID-19, which would lead one to believe that it is likely an injury he suffered on or off the ice while practicing with the team in preparation of the series. As of yet, there’s been no official word on defenseman Tony DeAngelo who was expected to be a game-time decision as recently as last night.

We’ll keep you updated if there are any developments on this story.

Game 1 begins at noon. Here we go.