The contract negotiations involving New York Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin have become a major storyline this season, amid constant speculation and reports.
After a victory against Detroit on Oct. 14, Red Wings head coach Derek Lalonde commented on Shesterkin’s performance, referencing the contract offer he rejected before the season started.
Following another standout showing on Saturday against the Maple Leafs in Toronto, two more rivals praised Shesterkin, boosting his leverage in the ongoing talks.
In that game, the Rangers won 4–1, with Shesterkin stopping 34 of 35 shots, only conceding one goal to Leafs captain Auston Matthews. Despite Toronto creating several scoring opportunities, Shesterkin held firm, and only Matthews managed to find the net.
Matthews lauded Shesterkin, calling him “very composed,” and acknowledging his athleticism and timely saves. Anthony Stolarz, Toronto’s goalie, also praised Shesterkin post-game, commenting that it’s clear why he’s set to become the highest-paid goalie in the league.
Despite turning down an $88 million offer, Shesterkin continues to strengthen his case for setting new salary records for goalies and Rangers players alike. However, if Kevin Weekes’ latest report is accurate, Shesterkin may not secure a $12 million-plus per year deal.
Weekes speculated that the deal will likely settle in the $11 million range, saying, “I don’t think it goes to 12… Could be wrong.”
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