Stan Fischler US Hall Of Fame MSG With the New York Rangers [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-york-rangers/new-york-rangers/brennan-othmann-new-york-rangers-prospect-shot] firmly ensconced in first place, there's really nothing to worry about. Really. That is, unless you think there IS something to worry about, then please tell me. We can't worry about the kind coach who could give John Tortorella media lessons on how to be a mensch. But Torts doesn't coach here anymore, so why am I making trouble with him in the first place? (Answer: Because I'm tired of telling him pre-game jokes.) You ask Peter L. a question, and he'll give you a civil answer even if you call him "Lavvy." I examine the Boys with The Blue Shirt, and one name comes to mind: Alfred E. Newman of Mad Magazine fame. And when I think of Alfred E. Newman and the Rangers, one deathless quote comes to mind: "What? Me Worry?" The problem here is that since the invention of artificial ice, Rangers fans must have something to worry about. So, as a public service, I will suggest this one and see if you agree. Let's all worry about Igor Shesterkin [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-york-rangers/news/igor-shesterkin-named-rangers-2024-all-star-representative]. Now I'm not telling you that there IS something wrong with Comrade S so we'll have to work at this challenge a bit; and there's nothing wrong with that, is there? (Don't answer; I know the answer.) What's wrong with Comrade Shes is that he ain't what he used to be. And what he used to be was a padded one who once won the Vezina Trophy. Image [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjAzNDgzNjYwMTM1OTY2MDQ0/usatsi_22142044.jpg] That naturally brings us to the next question: Why isn't Comrade Igor not in the Vezina conversation anymore? Forget the silly and confusing numbers; he's simply not the guy of not that long ago. You know it, Lavvy (oops!) knows it, and, who knows, maybe Comrade Shesterkin does as well. Really, if there's anything wrong with the Rangers' Number One goalkeeper, it's the fact that when the curtain rose for 2024, Igor had egg on his crease -- otherwise known as a 6-1 loss to Carolina and at The World's Most Famous Arena no less. But, hey, the guy's due for an off night, once in a Blueshirt Moon, so we'll make believe it never happened. Right? Right! Attention, pals! Relax and enjoy this team that's more indomitable than any in the Met Division. Enjoy the coach without a Torts temper, and forget about a Vezina for Shes. He's been there, done that. But, The Maven will let you in on a secret; Promise you won't tell. Promise. The real, no-fooling-around problem with Igor Shesterkin is (shhhh) Jonathan Quick! Quckie is quicker; and, what's more, better — for now. TOP STORIES
