NHL1h ago
Garand Steps Up as Rangers Face Goaltending Uncertainty
The 24-year-old has seized a starting role after injuries hit the New York roster, posting strong numbers in limited NHL action.
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Sudden Opportunity
Dylan Garand spent the prior four professional seasons in the AHL with the Hartford Wolf Pack. The Rangers planned to keep him there for 2026-27 after placing him on waivers, where he cleared and secured an apartment nearby. A lower-body issue to the veteran backup prompted his recall as the backup for the second game of the season. He earned his first NHL start shortly after and recorded a 22-save shutout.
Strong Early Results
In six appearances, Garand holds a 5-3-1 record with a.927 save percentage and 1.82 goals-against average. His prior NHL experience consisted of three starts that produced a 2-0-1 mark, a.948 save percentage and 1.62 goals-against average. After one challenging outing in which he allowed four goals on 13 shots, he responded with 28 saves on 29 shots in a 1-0 overtime loss.
Uncertain Path Ahead
The 103rd overall pick from 2020 knows the roster situation remains fluid, with 11 seasons and 334 games of NHL experience on the injured backup and interest in additional options including a 40-year-old veteran. Garand has stressed staying present and focused on stopping pucks while the team navigates the absence of its primary starter, who is expected to miss the remainder of the season.
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