The New York Rangers and star goaltender Igor Shesterkin are keeping negotiations quiet, but recent reports suggest both parties are aiming for a long-term, record-setting extension. During an appearance on Sirius XM NHL Network Radio, insider David Pagnotta mentioned that while discussions have slowed since the start of the offseason, the goal remains clear: a deal that would keep Shesterkin with the Rangers for the rest of his career. “They’ve had talks early on,” Pagnotta said. “They’re looking to work out a long-term extension, which is still the plan.”
Shesterkin is entering the final year of his four-year, $22.7 million contract and is seeking to become the highest-paid goaltender in the NHL. With a current cap hit of $5.66 million, his next deal could exceed Carey Price’s $10.5 million cap hit, potentially reaching $11 to $12 million annually. This was first reported by Molly Walker of the New York Post in June, who noted Shesterkin’s camp is targeting as high as $12 million per year.
Pagnotta speculated that the delay in negotiations might be tied to Shesterkin’s team keeping an eye on the market, particularly the ongoing contract talks involving Boston’s Jeremy Swayman. “Shesterkin is waiting to see where that situation ends up before engaging too deeply in his own negotiations,” Pagnotta explained. “Ultimately, he’s expected to become the highest-paid goaltender once Swayman’s deal is finalized.”
Shesterkin’s performance certainly warrants such a deal. Over 208 career starts, he has compiled a 135-59-17 record with a 2.43 goals-against average and a .921 save percentage. He also claimed the Vezina Trophy in 2022. In the playoffs, Shesterkin boasts a solid 23-20 record and a .928 save percentage in 44 starts.
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