Jeremy Swayman and Igor Shesterkin, two elite NHL goaltenders for the Boston Bruins and New York Rangers respectively, are making waves with their contract negotiations.
Swayman is currently in a dispute with the Bruins, reportedly seeking a long-term deal. However, the team is only offering him a four-year contract at a lower price.
On the other hand, Shesterkin, considered one of the best in the league, is expected to ask for a $12 million annual salary when his contract is up, leaving the Rangers in a tough spot regarding how much they’re willing to pay to keep him.
According to Pierre LeBrun from TSN, both goalies aim to reshape the market for goaltender salaries. Shesterkin’s target is to surpass Carey Price’s $10.5 million yearly deal, while Swayman is pushing for an eight-year deal at a comparable rate.
If these demands are met, it could transform the landscape of NHL contracts for goaltenders, possibly making eight-figure salaries the new norm.
However, with an increase in goal-scoring across the league, it remains to be seen if investing so heavily in goaltenders is the wisest strategy for team rosters. Regardless, their upcoming contracts will be intriguing to follow.