Devils, Rangers Goalies Brawl in Heated Rivalry Game

Markstrom and Shesterkin throw down in rare goalie fight during Tuesday night matchup.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 2:20am

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In a season of struggles for both the New Jersey Devils and New York Rangers, the two teams' goalies, Jacob Markstrom and Igor Shesterkin, provided a rare highlight for fans when they engaged in a heated fight during Tuesday night's game. The altercation resulted in both goalies receiving 7 penalty minutes, the most of any players on the night, with their penalties being served by teammates Timo Meier and Conor Sheary. The Rangers went on to win the game 4-1.

Why it matters

Goalie fights are an uncommon occurrence in the NHL, making this clash between the Devils' Markstrom and the Rangers' Shesterkin - the 2021-22 Vezina Trophy winner - a noteworthy moment in an otherwise forgettable season for both struggling teams. The fight showcased the intensity of the long-standing rivalry between the two New York-area franchises.

The details

The fight broke out in the third period of Tuesday night's game between the Devils and Rangers. Shesterkin and Markstrom left their creases and engaged in a physical altercation, trading punches. Shesterkin appeared to get the better of the exchange, unleashing a flurry of blows on his opponent.

  • The fight occurred during the third period of the March 31, 2026 game between the Devils and Rangers.

The players

Jacob Markstrom

The goaltender for the New Jersey Devils.

Igor Shesterkin

The goaltender for the New York Rangers and the 2021-22 Vezina Trophy winner.

Timo Meier

A Devils player who served Markstrom's penalties.

Conor Sheary

A Rangers player who served Shesterkin's penalties.

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The takeaway

This rare goalie fight between the Devils' Markstrom and the Rangers' Shesterkin provided a memorable moment in an otherwise forgettable season for both struggling teams, showcasing the intensity of the long-standing rivalry between the two New York-area franchises.