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Rangers and Devils Goalies Brawl in Rare Goalie Fight
Tempers flare as Igor Shesterkin and Jacob Markstrom drop the gloves in heated on-ice scuffle
Apr. 1, 2026 at 4:33pm
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In a rare and dramatic moment, New York Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin and New Jersey Devils goaltender Jacob Markstrom engaged in a physical altercation during Tuesday night's game at Madison Square Garden. The fight broke out after a scuffle near the goal line, with Markstrom skating the length of the ice to confront Shesterkin. The two goalies removed their helmets and exchanged blows, with Shesterkin emerging victorious as the home crowd chanted his name.
Why it matters
Goalie fights are exceptionally uncommon in the NHL, making this incident a highly unusual and newsworthy event. The heated rivalry between the Rangers and Devils, both struggling teams in the Metropolitan Division, added to the intensity of the moment and underscored the passion and competitiveness of the players involved.
The details
The fight occurred in the third period after Devils forward Paul Cotter made contact with Shesterkin near the goal line, sparking a scuffle. Markstrom then skated the length of the ice to confront Shesterkin, and the two goalies removed their helmets and exchanged punches. Shesterkin landed a flurry of blows, knocking Markstrom to the ice, to the delight of the Madison Square Garden crowd.
- The fight took place during the third period of Tuesday night's game between the New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils.
- The incident occurred on April 1, 2026.
The players
Igor Shesterkin
The starting goaltender for the New York Rangers, known for his strong play and competitive nature.
Jacob Markstrom
The starting goaltender for the New Jersey Devils, who skated the length of the ice to confront Shesterkin during the fight.
Paul Cotter
A forward for the New Jersey Devils, whose contact with Shesterkin near the goal line sparked the initial scuffle.
What’s next
The NHL is expected to review the incident and issue any necessary suspensions or fines to the players involved.
The takeaway
This rare and dramatic goalie fight between two of the NHL's top netminders underscores the intense rivalry and competitive spirit between the New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils, two struggling teams looking to gain an edge in the Metropolitan Division.
