NHL: New York Rangers at Toronto Maple Leafs - Source: Imagn

"Not giving over $11.5M" - NHL analyst offers blunt take on Igor Shesterkin’s next contract

Modified Oct 22, 2024 15:48 GMT

Igor Shesterkin, one of the best goalies in the NHL, is trying to get a contract extension from the New York Rangers. They reportedly offered him $11 million in AAV, which was the highest for a goalie in hockey history.

He turned it down, sparking speculation that he wanted much more than that. Hockey analyst Mike Rupp thinks the brakes need to be pumped at some point.

"He certainly is that good, but you just can't that type of money to a goaltender," Rupp said. "You're playing 60 of the 82 games. So for 20 games, you're going to have your most valuable asset not in the lineup.

"I don't think goalies should be considered up in the same ballpark as the other players ... He will be the highest-paid goaltender in the league now and probably in league history ... If he's turning down $11 [million] a year, I'm not giving him over $11.5."

While Rupp agrees Shesterkin is one of the best and that he should be paid, he balked at the idea considering he's not going to play all of 82 games.

Anthony Stolarz praises Igor Shesterkin after losing

The Toronto Maple Leafs and New York Rangers, two of the hottest teams in hockey this year, faced off and the Rangers earned a crucial win. In it, Igor Shesterkin stopped 34 of 35 shots.

Igor Shesterkin blocked 34 of 35 shots in a game (Imagn)

The goalkeeping was a primary reason the Rangers won, and opposite goalie Anthony Stolarz, who saved 25 of 27 shots, had nothing but praise for Shesterkin following their duel.

"You see why he's going to be the highest-paid goalie in the league. Hats off to him," Stolarz said.

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The Rangers win moved them to 4-0-1 on the season, and their hot start to the campaign is thanks in no small part to the excellent shot prevention by Shesterkin and the Rangers' defense.