With NHL training camps rapidly approaching, chatter regarding Igor Shesterkin and a potential contract extension has increased.
New York Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin. Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
The New York Post's Mollie Walker reported this summer that those working on behalf of the Rangers netminder are looking for a significant payday with one year left on his current contract. According to the report, Shesterkin's people are looking for upwards of $12 million annually, making him the highest-paid goalie in the league.
On Tuesday, the Fourth Period's Dave Pagnotta told Sirius XM NHL Network radio that he believes an extension is in the works.
In looking at Shesterkin's numbers alone — especially in the playoffs — he is more than worthy of a lucrative contract extension. After registering a .913 save percentage with four shutouts during the regular season, he dominated the Stanley Cup playoffs with a .927 save percentage through 10 wins while facing 524 shots.
He also won these postseason contests while facing over 40 shots in back-to-back games, each time securing a win against the Carolina Hurricanes.
As The Athletic's Dom Luszczyszyn explained, hitting close to the salary cap is the biggest sticking point.
"The issue is the expectation that comes with such a lofty price tag," Luszczyszyn wrote. "A $12 million deal leaves extremely little room for error, and the risk only grows as Shesterkin enters his 30s."
Then again, the Rangers let some key unrestricted free agents walk this summer, which will help clear the way for the Russian netminder to earn a lofty deal.
Long story short, conversations on this front won't be quiet much longer. Expect Shesterkin to get a hefty contract extension before the season opens up.
