The New York Rangers made headlines at the 2026 NHL Draft by selecting goaltender Danai Shaiikov in the third round, marking their first goalie pick since 2021. Shaiikov, surprised during the announcement while in the bathroom, expressed his excitement to join the prestigious organization and noted he sees his playing style akin to Igor Shesterkin’s despite idolizing Sergei Bobrovsky. Last season, he played for the Gatineau Olympiques, posting an 18-26-2 record with a .903 save percentage. Shaiikov will return to the QMJHL for the 2026-27 season.
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Rangers’ Goalie Prospect Danai Shaiikov Sees Similarities to Igor Shesterkin
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