Igor Shesterkin Gets Backup as Rangers Acquire Joonas Korpisalo

Igor Shesterkin's backup situation just got clearer. On July 1, 2026, the New York Rangers acquired goalie Joonas Korpisalo from the Boston Bruins in exchange for a 2028 fourth-round draft pick and forward prospect Kalle Väisänen.

The Rangers made this trade to strengthen their goalie position. Korpisalo has played as a backup for the Bruins over the last two seasons, posting a 14-9-6 record with a .894 save percentage.

Korpisalo's experience will be valuable to the Rangers. He has compiled 334 appearances in his 11-year career, including 55 in 2023-24 with the Ottawa Senators.

With Jonathan Quick's retirement, the Rangers needed a reliable backup for Igor Shesterkin. Korpisalo is the leading candidate for this role, but he will face competition from 24-year-old Dylan Garand.

The competition between Korpisalo and Garand could create a tricky situation. Both goalies need to clear waivers before being assigned to the AHL, which may lead to some roster decisions.

The Rangers are viewing this as an opportunity to strengthen their roster. Korpisalo's contract has two years remaining, with a $3 million cap hit and a 10-team no-trade list.

The Bruins, on the other hand, are looking to add depth to their defense. Clearing Korpisalo's average annual value gives them more flexibility to make moves in the offseason.

The Rangers' goalie situation is now more settled. With Korpisalo on board, Igor Shesterkin has a reliable backup, and the team can focus on other areas of their roster.

Korpisalo's stats are impressive. In the 2025-26 season, he posted a 3.15 goals-against average and -8.94 goals-saved-above average, according to Natural Stat Trick.

The Rangers' fans can expect some competition in the goalie position. Korpisalo and Garand will battle for the No. 2 role, which could lead to some interesting decisions for the coaching staff.

The trade is a significant move for the Rangers. It shows that they are committed to strengthening their roster and providing Igor Shesterkin with a reliable backup.

The Bruins' decision to trade Korpisalo was likely due to his contract. With a $3 million cap hit, he was a significant expense for the team, and they may have felt that they could use that money more effectively elsewhere.

The Rangers' acquisition of Korpisalo is a positive move for the team. It adds depth to their roster and provides Igor Shesterkin with a reliable backup, which could be crucial in the upcoming season.