BREAKING NEWS: New York Rangers GM Issues Update on Igor Shesterkin’s Contract Talks…

New York Rangers General Manager Chris Drury has emphasized the team’s commitment to keeping star goaltender Igor Shesterkin in New York for the foreseeable future. Speaking ahead of the Rangers’ training camp on September 17, Drury expressed the organization’s intent to secure Shesterkin with a long-term contract extension, as reported by Vince Mercogliano of USA Today.

Drury did not disclose specific details regarding the contract talks or the financial terms the team is prepared to offer. However, it’s widely anticipated that Shesterkin will see a significant raise from his current $5.66 million annual salary.

Shesterkin, 28, has been exceptional in recent seasons, highlighted by his 2022 Vezina Trophy win and a Hart Trophy finalist nomination. Since signing his four-year, $22.7 million contract in 2021, he has become one of the NHL’s top goaltenders, leading the league in wins (109) and save percentage (.921) during that time.

His playoff performances have further bolstered his case for a lucrative extension, with a .928 save percentage and a 2.39 goals-against average over 44 playoff games.

Reports suggest that Shesterkin’s camp is targeting a contract as high as $12 million annually, according to Molly Walker of the New York Post. Though negotiations have been quiet since the offseason, both sides are reportedly focused on reaching a long-term deal. The Rangers are projected to have $30 million in cap space for the 2025–26 season, though a significant portion will be allocated to Shesterkin once the extension is finalized.