Henrik Lundqvist gives a goalie's POV into possible Igor Shesterkin-Rangers contract extension drama

By Abhishek Dilta

Modified Sep 30, 2024 03:51 GMT

New York Rangers netminder Igor Shesterkin is set to enter the final season of his four-year, $22 million contract, and is eligible to become an unrestricted free agent next July.

According to reports, the Blueshirts are optimistic about signing Shesterkin to a new deal that could make him the highest-paid netminder in the NHL. However, at the moment, no agreement has been finalized, leaving the 28-year-old Russian netminder's future uncertain.

Henrik Lundqvist, the legendary goaltender for the Rangers, shared his insight on Igor Shesterkin's contract extension saga. He pointed out that players often establish high standards for themselves, which leads to self-imposed pressure.

Lundqvist believes that Shesterkin should prioritize delivering strong performances over engaging in financial negotiations (via Post):

“I think you set a standard for yourself. You put a certain amount of pressure on yourself, so it doesn’t matter. You want to be up there, and you put the money aside, it’s more about performance and accomplishing what you want to accomplish. That pressure you put on yourself, that’s what really matters."

Signing Shesterkin is a top priority for the Rangers as the new season approaches. The Blueshirts have time to finalize the deal until the season commences on Oct. 9, as the goalie has expressed that he prefers not to have discussions during the season.

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NHL insider weighs in on Igor Shesterkin's next contract

NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman provided insight into Igor Shetserkin's contract situation. Friedman suggested that the Blueshirts are committed to signing Shetserkin and making him the highest-paid goaltender in the league, with potential figures of $11.5 million and $12.5 million AAV.

"We are signing this player. We are making him the highest-paid goaltender in the NHL. We recognize his importance to us. We know he's the backbone of this team. ... This is now all about the number. I don’t know what this number is going to be. There's been a lot of reports it’s going to be $12, $12.5, $11.5 (million)."

Friedman also noted that the Rangers have a significant advantage in these negotiations due to the possibility of an eight-year deal. Igor Shesterkin has posted a 135-59-17 record in his five seasons with the Rangers and won the Vezina Trophy in the 2021-22 season.