Garand’s Rise to Rangers Backup

**Corey** (0:00)
It's June 22nd. This is New York Rangers News Today, AI powered updates on your team.
I'm Corey with the story.
Dylan Garand just signed a two-year deal with the New York Rangers, and it looks like he's set to be Igor Shesterkin's backup. The first year is a two-way contract, meaning he'll get paid less if he sent down to the AHL. But the second year is a one-way deal, and he'll be a restricted free agent after that. With Jonathan Quick retiring after next season, Garand is in a prime position to step into that backup role. He's no longer waiver-exempt, so if the Rangers want him in the AHL, they'd have to risk another team picking him up. He's hungry to play in the league, and he's been putting in the work this summer to be ready. Garand actually made a real impression at the end of last season, playing in three games after being called up from Harford. He went two-and-one with a really solid goals, against average and save percentage. He even became the first Rangers rookie goalie since Henrik Lundqvist. Way back in 2005, to get at least a point in each of his first three NHL starts. He had some strong performances in those late season games, including his NHL debut, where he made 35 saves. Then he got his first win, stopping almost every shot, and followed that up with another road win in the season finale. Before that, he was playing well in the AHL, winning six of his last nine starts. The Rangers drafted Garand in the fourth round back in 2020
He's played a lot of games in the AHL, and even represented Canada internationally, winning gold at the World Juniors. He's confident he can handle the pressure, and earn that full time spot in New York.