Rangers' Young Goalie Impresses in Season Finale

Dylan Garand makes strong case for expanded role next season

Apr. 16, 2026 at 9:24pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, geometric painting depicting a hockey goaltender making a save, with the player's equipment and ice surface rendered in muted tones and the puck and net highlighted in vibrant colors, capturing the raw energy and movement of the sport.A cubist interpretation of a young goaltender's standout performance, hinting at his potential to earn a larger role with the Rangers next season.NYC Today

The New York Rangers ended their 2025-26 season with a 4-2 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning, led by a strong performance from 23-year-old goaltender Dylan Garand. Garand, who was making just his third appearance of the year, recorded 29 saves and earned his second win of the season, showcasing his potential as a future option for the Rangers' backup goalie role.

Why it matters

With veteran Jonathan Quick retiring, the Rangers will need to find a new backup goaltender for next season. Garand's impressive showing in the season finale suggests he could be a cost-effective, internal option to fill that role, providing the team with a young talent to develop behind starter Igor Shesterkin.

The details

Garand was given the start over Shesterkin in the Rangers' final game, allowing the team to get an extended look at the young netminder. He responded with a 2.00 goals-against average and .948 save percentage, building on his previous two appearances this season. The Rangers clearly wanted to evaluate Garand's potential, and his strong outing has likely put him in the mix to earn more playing time next year.

  • The Rangers finished their 2025-26 season on April 16, 2026.
  • Garand made his third appearance of the season in the final game.

The players

Dylan Garand

A 23-year-old goaltender for the New York Rangers who made a strong case for an expanded role next season with his performance in the team's season finale.

Igor Shesterkin

The Rangers' starting goaltender, who was given the day off in the season finale to allow Garand to start.

Jonathan Quick

The Rangers' veteran backup goaltender who is retiring, opening up a spot on the roster that Garand could fill.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“With a strong start under his belt to wrap up the season, it was certainly a good lasting impression heading into the summer for the young goalie.”

— Nick Ziegler, Author

What’s next

The Rangers will have to decide whether to pursue a veteran backup goaltender in free agency or free agency, or if they will give Garand a chance to earn the role next season.

The takeaway

Garand's impressive performance in the Rangers' season finale has positioned him as a potential internal option to fill the team's backup goaltender role next season, providing the organization with a cost-effective, young talent to develop behind starter Igor Shesterkin.