Goaltender Igor Shesterkin is expected to stay with the New York Rangers for a considerable time. Respected hockey journalist Elliotte Friedman from “32 Thoughts: The Podcast” has indicated in recent episodes that the Rangers plan to offer Shesterkin a contract extension. Currently, Shesterkin, 28, is finishing the last year of a four-year, $22.67 million contract ($5.67 million AAV).
However, the situation is still uncertain, leaving the possibility open for Shesterkin to enter free agency. If that occurs, here are five teams that might pursue him:
**Toronto Maple Leafs:** The Maple Leafs, a franchise driven by the urge to win and with a passionate fan base, cannot be overlooked. Their salary cap situation hinges on forwards Mitchell Marner and John Tavares, both of whom are on expiring contracts that consume about 25% of the cap. For Shesterkin, joining the league’s wealthiest team, led by Stanley Cup-winning coach Craig Berube and star player Auston Matthews, would be appealing.
**Utah Hockey Club:** Formerly known as Arizona, Utah has spent years gathering draft picks and talent, allowing it to have potential replacements for any unrestricted free agents. With substantial cap space, limited commitments in goal, and a goal to make a significant impact in a new market, Utah is poised to conclude its rebuilding phase. Shesterkin would fit well on this young, promising team, which can continue to enhance its roster and meet his salary requirements.
**Montreal Canadiens:** The Canadiens appear ready to compete with a talented group of young forwards, though they face defensive challenges, partly masked by their current goaltender Samuel Montembeault. Jeff Gorton, Montreal’s executive vice president of hockey operations, knows Shesterkin well. He was instrumental in drafting him when he was the Rangers’ assistant GM and later brought him to North America as GM. After Gorton was unexpectedly dismissed by Rangers owner James Dolan in May 2021, the Canadiens have been searching for a way to regain their former prominence in the NHL.
**Detroit Red Wings:** The Red Wings are facing their ninth straight season without playoff action. They have a solid roster capable of competing and a wealth of prospects thanks to GM Steve Yzerman’s patient rebuild approach. However, that patience may soon pay off as key prospects are on the verge of joining the team.
**Chicago Blackhawks:** The Blackhawks offer a mix of elements from the other teams on this list: as an Original Six franchise in a large market, they have a deep prospect pool and enough cap space. Fans are anxious after years of disappointing finishes. Chicago boasts a potential franchise player in Connor Bedard, but they face challenges with $7.55 million tied up in goaltenders Petr Mrazek and Laurent Brossoit for next season. If they can offload one of these contracts, pursuing Shesterkin could be a worthwhile endeavor.
