Here's the Maven's opinion on Igor Shesterkin's contract situation.
The Rangers arguing season has begun. Are YOU ready for it?bWe're focusing on Igor Shesterkin and his upcoming contract negotiations.
The Maven believes this will be something like the Blueshirts version of the 100 Years War.
Iggy's agent will demand the highest salary in NHL goaltending history. That's based on the theory that Czar Igor is the best goalie in the world.
Hey, Comrade S isn't even the best goalkeeper in Bettman, Inc.
As a matter of fact I'll go on record right now and tell you that Jonathan Quick could have done what flummoxed Iggy. Quick would have beaten Florida last spring.
Mind you it will take hard-bargaining for GM Drury to shoot down Shesty's ruble rooster. Here are eight solid points I'm happily loaning to the Blueshirts' boss.
1. Shesterkin can't be the NHL's best puckstopper; he didn't even win the Vezina Trophy.
2. The Blueshirts theme – STANLEY CUP OR BUST! – was a realistic one. Shesterkin couldn't even get to the Final round.
3. Don't even think about a deal that is anything over ten percent of the Cap.
4. Challenged by an aging Sergei Bobrovsky, the considerably younger Shesterkin capitulated to Bobby.
5. Don't get instant amnesia, pal, you became Mister Sieve in mid-season and fortunately Jonathan Quick bailed you and your buddies out until you recovered.
6. Be grateful, Igor. Drury gifted you with one of the league's best defense corps, headed by Adam Fox and Ryan Lindgren.
7. Czar Igor, take The Maven's advice; don't turn into Sir Selfish. The Loyalists will love you but only IF you're reasonable. But they won't let you forget it if you become Comrade Gimme More And More and More Rubles!
8. And fail to win yet another Cup!
