Shesterkin Breaks New Ground with Historic Contract
In a groundbreaking move, the New York Rangers have secured the future of their star goaltender, Igor Shesterkin, with an unprecedented eight-year contract extension valued at $92 million. This deal positions Shesterkin as the highest-paid goalie in the history of the NHL, surpassing the previous record held by Carey Price with his $84 million contract.
Shesterkin's contract, which commences in the 2025-26 season, will be a significant factor in the Rangers' salary cap considerations, with an average annual value of $11.5 million. The agreement ensures that the talented goaltender remains a central figure in the Rangers' strategy through the 2032-33 season. At just 27 years old, Shesterkin has already established himself as one of the league's elite players, evidenced by his status as a Vezina Trophy winner and his impressive stats over recent seasons.
A Beacon of Performance
Shesterkin's stellar performance is undeniable. From 2021 to 2024, he saved 79.5 goals above average, solidifying his reputation as a critical asset for the Rangers. His .921 save percentage during this period ranked second among regular starters in the league, highlighting his reliability and resilience on the ice. In the 2022 season alone, he saved an astounding 44.8 goals above average, showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion and perform under pressure.
Current season statistics reflect a slightly different picture, with a .908 save percentage and 4.52 goals saved above average— still impressive figures that indicate Shesterkin's enduring skill and competitiveness.
Shaping the League's Landscape
Shesterkin's landmark contract signals a broader trend within the NHL to lock in star talent with long-term deals, reshaping the landscape of the league. Teams are increasingly committed to making substantial financial investments in elite players, reinforcing their rosters with stability and long-term vision. This strategy is reflected in the recent contracts of other notable players, such as the Golden Knights' Brayden McNabb and the Maple Leafs' Jake McCabe.
McNabb's three-year contract extension is valued at $3.65 million per year, securing his tenure with the Golden Knights and demonstrating the team's faith in his abilities. Meanwhile, Jake McCabe's contract extension with the Toronto Maple Leafs runs through the 2028-29 season, offering him an average annual value of $4.51 million, reflecting his growing importance to the team.
Similarly, Jake Neighbours of the St. Louis Blues has been secured through the 2026-27 season. Neighbours, the No. 26 overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft, notched 27 goals in 77 games last season, showing promise that the Blues are eager to cultivate.
Movement and Recognition in the League
The league is also seeing significant movement and recognition among goaltenders. Linus Ullmark, the 2023 Vezina Trophy winner, was traded to the Ottawa Senators, where he signed a four-year extension. This move demonstrates the Senators' commitment to strengthening their goaltending lineup with a proven talent.
Meanwhile, Jake Oettinger's statistics with the Dallas Stars—19 postseason appearances with a .913 save percentage and 4.1 goals saved above average—underscore his value and potential within the league.
In addition, Jeremy Swayman's re-signing with the Boston Bruins after offseason negotiations indicates the team's priority to retain key players capable of contributing to their future success.
The extension of contracts across the NHL, led by Shesterkin's record-breaking deal, highlights a strategic approach by teams to fortify their rosters with talented players who can drive competitive performance for years to come. As financial commitments to elite talent grow, the league is poised for dynamic shifts in team compositions and competitive standings.