The New York Rangers are eager to secure a contract extension for Igor Shesterkin this season, although the process has encountered some challenges. Both Shesterkin and the team are performing well, yet he declined an unprecedented $88 million offer from the Rangers earlier this year, spread over eight years.
Fortunately, there is still time for negotiations, as the 2024-25 NHL season has just begun. The Rangers have a clear understanding of what it might take to lock in their star goaltender for the long term and are reportedly feeling optimistic about their chances, according to NHL insider Frank Seravalli.
“The Rangers believe they are in a strong position… While much of their success depends on Igor Shesterkin, it will still be tough to surpass their offer,” Seravalli explained on Sportsnet 590 The FAN. “You could speculate that he might prefer a no-state-tax team in the summer if he hits free agency. However, it’s still a seven-year deal, and to match the Rangers’ $88 million, that would require a salary of around $12.57 million per year, a significant increase from his current $11 million.”
Shesterkin’s value to the Rangers cannot be overstated. Since his debut in the 2019-20 season, he has maintained a .921 save percentage, with only Ottawa Senators goalie Linus Ullmark performing better in that timeframe, as per Evolving Hockey. He ranks second in saves so far in 2024-25, only behind Anaheim’s Lukas Dostal, according to Hockey Reference.
Moreover, Shesterkin’s impact extends beyond traditional statistics; he is one of just five goaltenders to achieve over 100 Goals Above Replacement (GAR) since 2019-20, only surpassed by Connor Hellebuyck and Juuse Saros in that metric.
Given his exceptional performance, it’s understandable that Shesterkin is looking for a lucrative contract. Should he enter NHL Free Agency, it’s likely that another team would readily offer him a significant deal. Therefore, it is crucial for the Rangers to finalize a long-term contract with their star goaltender before he becomes available in July.
Currently, the Rangers feel optimistic about reaching an agreement with Shesterkin, but the specific terms of the contract remain uncertain. Fans should keep an eye on this situation as it unfolds, especially as the NHL Trade Deadline approaches in March.
