The New York Rangers are approaching a critical moment that could shape the future of their franchise.
At the top of their priorities is securing a long-term extension for star goaltender Igor Shesterkin, which the team hopes to finalize soon.
According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, who spoke on Sirius XM NHL Network Radio, the Rangers are close to locking in a long-term deal with Shesterkin. Friedman expressed confidence that both sides will reach an agreement shortly, solidifying the Rangers’ commitment to Shesterkin and vice versa.
“I believe it’s going to happen,” Friedman said. “The Rangers have decided they’re going to pay him, and it’s just a matter of finalizing the numbers. Until I hear otherwise, I expect it to work out.”
Shesterkin is in the final year of his four-year, $22.67 million contract, which carries a $5.67 million cap hit. As it stands, he will become a free agent on July 1, 2025, and his next contract is expected to come with a substantial raise. According to insiders, the netminder’s camp is reportedly seeking around $12 million annually, which would make him the highest-paid goalie in the league.
“He’s the best goaltender in the league, and the Rangers know they need to keep him,” Friedman added.
Shesterkin had an impressive 2023-24 season, recording a 36-17-2 regular-season record with a 2.58 goals-against average, a .913 save percentage, and four shutouts in 55 games. He also excelled in the postseason with a 2.34 GAA and .927 save percentage over 16 games.
The Rangers’ season opener against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 9 could serve as an unofficial deadline set by Shesterkin to finalize the extension, or the team may have to wait until after the season to re-negotiate.
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