It’s no secret that Igor Shesterkin is the backbone of the New York Rangers. Since stealing the starting job from Henrik Lundqvist in 2020, he’s blossomed into arguably the best goaltender in the world, culminating in a Vezina Trophy win in 2022. Now, with his current contract expiring at the end of this season, the Rangers are facing a hefty price tag to keep their star netminder in the Big Apple.
Igor Shesterkin to Ink $11.25 Million AAV Deal, Surpassing Carey Price
NHL insider Frank Seravalli is reporting that the Rangers are prepared to make Shesterkin the highest-paid goaltender in NHL history with an $11.25 million per year extension. This surpasses the previous record held by Carey Price at $10.5 million. While committing over 12% of the salary cap to a single player, especially a goaltender who only plays two-thirds of the games, might seem excessive, it’s a move the Rangers simply can’t afford not to make.
In today’s NHL, elite goaltending is the cornerstone of any Stanley Cup contender. Just look at the recent champions – Andrei Vasilevskiy with Tampa Bay, Sergei Bobrovsky with Florida. Shesterkin has proven he has that championship-caliber pedigree. His acrobatic saves and calm demeanor under pressure have bailed out the Rangers countless times.
While some have speculated that Shesterkin might be seeking a $12 million AAV, Seravalli believes that the deal will ultimately land at $11.25 million. This number makes sense for both sides. Shesterkin gets the recognition and financial security he deserves, while the Rangers lock up their franchise player for the foreseeable future.
This proposed contract extension is a testament to Shesterkin’s incredible talent and the value he brings to the Rangers organization. It’s a significant investment, but one that could pay huge dividends if Shesterkin can backstop the Rangers to their first Stanley Cup since 1994.
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