Former Rangers goalie believes Shesterkin won't receive asking price with the New York Rangers

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Hunter Bowman
October 25, 2024 (11:35 PM)

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According to former goaltender and NHL analyst Kevin Weekes there is a likelihood that Igor Shesterkin's next contract will not exceed 12 million per season.

Much has been made about the Russian netminder's rejection of an 8-year $88 million deal which would have made him the highest paid goalie in NHL history. He would have surpassed the current leader who is former Montreal Canadiens goaltender Carey price at 10.5 million per season.

«Hey, when it's all said and done, he will be the highest-paid goalie in league history. And I think just based on the timing, he's very deserving of that now, at this point in time,» Weekes said on NHL Network.

It's been mentioned that Shesterkin was not pleased with the fact that his rejection of this contract was made public. But he also made it clear that he wants to be the highest paid Rangers player let alone the highest paid goaltender.

His resume certainly gives him leverage as he holds a Vezina trophy, overall excellent numbers and took the Rangers nearly to the Stanley Cup last year after posting their best winning total in team history.

Weekes downplayed the notion that a $12 million per season contract might be out of the question as it would hinder the team overall in terms of adding more talent and helping to build a stronger contender who is looking to break their 30-year Stanley Cup drought.

«And ultimately, could he push and should he push to get $12 (million)? Sure, why not? Should he push to get 12 and a half? Sure, he can make the case, but I don't think that helps their team as such, just based on where they are cap wise. Although that's not his responsibility. Boiler, if you want to win, you need other good pieces around you, too,» Weekes said.

«So to me, I think ultimately this gets resolved with a number with an 11 on it. Whether it's $11.5 {$11.6 million, $11.7 million). That's my thought. I don't think it goes to 12. Yeah, I don't think it goes to 12. Could be wrong.»

It was reported that if a deal could not be struck prior to the season beginning that contract talks would be shelved until the end of the year in which he could walk away as an unrestricted free agent, but with the seriousness of this extension and the quality of player he is, I believe general manager Chris Drury will do everything he can to lock him to a new contract sooner rather than later.