Elliotte Friedman mentioned in his latest episode of the 32 Thoughts Podcast that there are complications in the negotiations between the New York Rangers and goaltender Igor Shesterkin.
Friedman stated that Shesterkin’s representatives believe he is the best player on the Rangers and deserves appropriate compensation. Meanwhile, Artemi Panarin, the team’s highest earner, makes $11.64 million annually, and Friedman’s information suggests that Shesterkin is aiming for a salary surpassing that of Panarin. The Rangers, however, are not willing to accommodate this request.
Friedman noted that while this is merely a theory, he feels he is close to understanding the dynamics at play. He could not verify Kevin Weekes’ claim of an eight-year, $11 million offer from the Rangers, but he believes it to be true and thinks Shesterkin received and declined that offer later on.
Friedman indicated that the Rangers are likely to eventually meet Shesterkin’s salary expectations, but the significant gap between what Carey Price earned as the highest-paid goalie in the NHL and wha Shesterkin demands poses a challenge. The Rangers worry about the perception of giving Shesterkin an increase of as much as $1.5 million over the record salary. Typically, raises in these situations range from $100,000 to $600,000, based on the salary cap percentage. The Rangers risk appearing unwise for granting Shesterkin a disproportionate raise.
However, Friedman argued that Shesterkin is putting the Rangers in a difficult position because their style of play heavily relies on him. A recent 31-save shutout in the season opener demonstrated that the team would need to drastically alter their strategy if another goalie were to take Shesterkin’s place.
While it remains uncertain when this situation will be resolved, Friedman believes the Rangers will ultimately acquiesce. Yet, given that Shesterkin’s minimum aligns with Panarin’s contract and the Rangers’ maximum is similarly constrained, it is difficult to predict how long these negotiations might continue. Additionally, it is unclear whether Shesterkin has truly halted all discussions now that the season has started.
