The New York Rangers secured a decisive 5-0 win over the Ottawa Senators on Tuesday night at Madison Square Garden, but the game wasn’t without its fireworks.

A third-period altercation involving Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin and Senators forward Brady Tkachuk briefly overshadowed the victory.

The incident occurred during a battle for the puck near Shesterkin’s net.

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After being knocked into, the Rangers’ star goaltender appeared shaken but quickly got to his feet and charged toward Tkachuk, who had been tangled up with Rangers defenseman Braden Schneider.

Jan 21, 2025; New York, New York, USA; New York Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin (31) fights with Ottawa Senators left wing Brady Tkachuk (7) during the third period at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Schneidler-Imagn Images

A group of players from both teams quickly converged behind the net, escalating the situation.

Jan 21, 2025; New York, New York, USA; New York Rangers center Matt Rempe (73) and Ottawa Senators left wing Brady Tkachuk (7) fight during the third period at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Schneidler-Imagn Images

When the scrum cleared, Shesterkin still had a hold of Tkachuk, with his goalie glove pressed over the Senators forward’s head.

Officials intervened to separate the players, with one referee managing to push Shesterkin away from the melee.

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However, the tension wasn’t over yet, as Tkachuk then became entangled with Rangers enforcer Matt Rempe.

Linesmen rushed to keep the two apart, eventually restoring order.

Despite the drama, the Rangers delivered a strong performance, with goals from Matt Rempe, Alexis Lafrenière, Arthur Kaliyev, Artemi Panarin, and Will Cuylle.

Shesterkin was in top form, making 20 saves and recording his second consecutive shutout.

The win was crucial for the Rangers (23-20-4) as they push to secure a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

The Senators, who currently hold the first wild-card spot, posed a significant challenge in the matchup.

With Tuesday’s victory, the Rangers are now just two points behind the final wild-card position, keeping their playoff hopes alive.

After the game, Matt Rempe reflected on the chaotic moment involving Shesterkin and Tkachuk.

“I don’t want anything to happen to him, but I love it just cause he’s a competitor,” Rempe said. “I just want to make sure [to] get in there and nothing happens. But Igor is the man.”

Shesterkin’s fiery display highlighted his competitive nature, a trait that has endeared him to teammates and fans alike.

While such involvement from a goaltender is rare, it underscored the intensity of the matchup and the high stakes for both teams.

The Rangers’ victory against Ottawa not only provided a morale boost but also demonstrated their determination as they aim to climb back into playoff contention.

With their next games carrying significant implications for their postseason chances, maintaining this momentum will be critical.

Shesterkin’s standout performance in goal and the team’s overall effort showcased their potential as they head into the final stretch of the season.

As the Eastern Conference playoff race heats up, the Rangers will look to build on this important win.

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