Shesterkin contract extension, richest for goalie in NHL history
New York Rangers Make Igor Shesterkin Highest-Paid Goaltender in NHL History
Igor Shesterkin’s recent contract extension with the New York Rangers has solidified his position as the highest-paid goaltender in NHL history, as reported by multiple sources.
The Rangers officially announced the eight-year extension over the weekend, without disclosing the financial details. However, reports suggest that the deal is valued at an impressive $92 million, with an average annual salary of $11.5 million. This surpasses Carey Price’s previous record-setting eight-year, $84 million contract with the Montreal Canadiens in 2017.
Shesterkin, who will celebrate his 29th birthday on December 30th, chose not to comment on the extension following the Rangers’ victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins on Friday night.
“I cannot say anything else,” Shesterkin stated. “Maybe we can talk about it tomorrow.”
Since his NHL debut in 2020, Shesterkin, the successor to legendary goalie Henrik Lundqvist, has established himself as one of the league’s premier goaltenders. With a remarkable record of 144 wins, 68 losses, and 18 ties, along with a 2.47 goals-against average and .920 save percentage, Shesterkin has consistently delivered outstanding performances.
This season, the Moscow native has posted a 9-9-1 record, with a 2.99 GAA and .908 save percentage.
Shesterkin’s exceptional skills were recognized in 2021-22 when he was awarded the prestigious Vezina Trophy as the NHL’s top goaltender. He has also led the Rangers to the Eastern Conference final on two occasions.
By securing Shesterkin with a long-term contract, General Manager Chris Drury has accomplished a crucial task for the Rangers, following the recent trade of defenseman Jacob Trouba to the Anaheim Ducks. Drury had previously inked a seven-year extension with rising star forward Alexis Lafreniere, and negotiations for a new contract with defenseman Ryan Lindgren may be on the horizon.
