Earlier this week, Draisaitl has became the highest paid player ever in NHL history after signing an eight-year, $112 million contract with the Edmonton Oilers.
With that being said this will significantly affect the New York Rangers as Igor Shesterkin is set to become a free agent next season, and is looking to secure a deal in the $12 million range.
Shesterkin who was arguably the New York Rangers best player last season, just based off his playoff performance, so it will be a very difficult decision for Chris Drury to not give him what he's asking for.
However, with Draisaitl signing this enormous contract, he has set the market for superstars of his caliber and ultimately the price will only increase.
The salary cap is expected to rise next year, meaning players could be making money that is unprecedented for the NHL.
Some good news is the cap is expected to rise next year, meaning players will be able to make more money, but then again the also have to sign Alexis Lafrenière to a contract extension and his value will be rising, along with K'Andre Miller.
Whatever decision Chris Drury makes, it will either make or break the franchise, as it's a super big risk to give a goalie a contract above $10 million dollars, but the Rangers have already pulled it off once with Henrik Lundqvist.
As seen on: The Hockey News
POLL | ||
Do you think Igor Shesterkin will secure a contract worth $12 Millon a year with the Rangers? | ||
Yes | 64 | 68.1 % |
No | 30 | 31.9 % |
List of polls |