The New York Rangers face a probably important downside as All-Star goaltender Igor Shesterkin has confirmed he won’t negotiate an extension in the course of the common season. This information comes simply over two weeks earlier than the season opener and after Shesterkin left some doubt about his future with a current remark to the media final week.
Based on Mollie Walker of the New York Put up, Shesterkin is in search of a whopping $12 million common annual worth (AAV) on his subsequent contract, indicating that the Rangers received’t be getting a hometown low cost. He not too long ago famous, “I like the group, I like the staff, I like the followers. So, in fact, it will be nice to remain right here, however you by no means know what can occur.”
His remarks have been flattering of the town and the staff, but in addition a bit open-ended.
Whereas the Rangers are reportedly prepared to make Shesterkin the highest-paid goaltender in NHL historical past, they have to additionally handle different contract negotiations subsequent summer time. With roughly $33.8 million in cap house projected if the wage cap reaches $92 million, the Rangers may even have to re-sign key gamers, together with Kaapo Kakko, Alexis Lafreniere, and Ryan Lindgren.
As a lot as they’d like to only give Shesterkin what he desires, there are critical penalties in doing so. And, now that he’s seemingly positioned a deadline on contract talks, the Rangers is likely to be in an ungainly place.
Shesterkin Contract Extension Deadline Creates Issues for the Rangers
The uncertainty round his current feedback and the full-court press he appears to be placing on the staff means probably strolling him to unrestricted free company on the finish of the season. This isn’t essentially one thing the staff desires hanging over the season.
If they can not finalize phrases earlier than October ninth, Shesterkin might enter free company, the place there’ll possible be fierce competitors for his companies. Even when the Rangers are hesitant about $12 million, at the very least one staff pays that value.
The subsequent 16 days will likely be essential for the Rangers as they navigate this advanced state of affairs. Can the franchise unlock a further $8 million in wage cap house? How will they accomplish that? It’s not a urgent have to make room for this season, however any dedication to Shesterkin at his ask means the remainder of the roster is aware of one other shoe is more likely to drop in the course of the yr.
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