The New York Rangers may have to grant goaltender Igor Shesterkin the hefty contract he is seeking. The 28-year-old star is aiming for a record-setting deal at the end of this season and has started impressively during this contract year. While there is discussion about whether the Rangers should meet his financial demands, one New York defenseman has already made his stance clear.
Following another standout performance by Shesterkin against the New York Islanders on Sunday, hockey analyst Jonny Lazarus spoke with defenseman Zac Jones about Shesterkin’s contributions. When talking about his assurance with Shesterkin in goal, Jones stated:
“Pay the man. He is the best goalie – hands down. There is nobody as good as Igor Shesterkin.”
Zac Jones via Jonny Lazarus
Shesterkin recently turned down an eight-year, $11 million yearly offer that would have made him the highest-paid goalie in NHL history. His current asking price is likely to be very high, and Jones seems to back that idea.
In the opening nine games of the season, Shesterkin has already secured six wins and recorded a shutout in the season opener against Pittsburgh. He holds a 2.22 goals against average and a .933 save percentage, both of which are better than his career averages.
With his outstanding performance, Shesterkin is an early favorite for this season’s Vezina Trophy, which is awarded after the regular season. Given this remarkable year, he may not only secure a second trophy but also a groundbreaking contract this summer.
