Igor Shesterkin appeared relatively unconcerned about his contract when addressing reporters on Friday, though he didn’t fully alleviate any worries regarding a potential departure as a free agent next summer.
“I love the team, I love the fans, so naturally, it would be wonderful to remain here. But you can never predict what will happen,” Shesterkin remarked.
This uncertain statement may relate to the ongoing negotiations regarding his extension, which began several months ago but have seen little advancement. Two league sources acquainted with the discussions between Shesterkin’s representatives and the New York Rangers indicated that the parties are “not remotely close” as of Sunday.
According to those sources, if an agreement isn’t reached before the Rangers kick off the season on Oct. 9 in Pittsburgh, negotiations will be paused until after the season concludes.
Of course, such statements can change — the Rangers might agree to all of Shesterkin’s contract requirements in November, leading to conversations mid-season — but it’s likely that the 28-year-old goalie would prefer to avoid distractions as the new season begins.
He mentioned on Friday that the current status of the contract discussions doesn’t trouble him. “It’s my agent’s responsibility,” Shesterkin stated. “I just want to concentrate on my game and my daily practices.”
If the Rangers initiated talks at the beginning of the offseason with the hope that Shesterkin, the team’s key player during the Rangers’ recent second run to the Eastern Conference final, would agree to a lower salary — potentially something akin to Carey Price’s $10.5 million annual deal with the Montreal Canadiens — that expectation has likely diminished.
Shesterkin is set to become the highest-paid goalie in NHL history, whether it’s with the Rangers or another team. If no agreement is reached within the next 16 days, the situation could extend into the following offseason, bringing the possibility of entering the open market and a significantly higher payday just months away.
New goalie coach Malcolm ‘prioritizes the individual’
Dylan Garand views the new Rangers goalie coach Jeff Malcolm as not only a skilled coach — as he has been Garand’s main coach for the past two seasons in AHL Hartford — but also as a commendable person who steps up when needed.
“A couple of years ago, when I was setting up my apartment in Hartford, my credit card was maxed out,” Garand recalled. “I was buying furniture and urgently needed a bed for that night. My card failed to work, so I called him up, and he put the bed on his card. I, of course, paid him back later. Acts like that are significant. And he’s also an excellent goalie coach.”
Malcolm is well-acquainted with the NHL-level goalies within the organization and has been a familiar presence for the Rangers for quite some time. His journey includes a four-year pro career as a goalie in Hartford and the ECHL from 2013 to 2017, following his collegiate career at Yale, where he earned an NCAA championship in his final year. After retiring as a goalie in 2017, he returned two years later as a consultant for Benoît Allaire and subsequently became Allaire’s primary assistant with the Wolfpack in 2021. Thus, Malcolm has participated in Rangers training camps as a depth goalie or a coach for over a decade.
Although Allaire is not present at Rangers camp, his teachings continue to be conveyed through Malcolm.
“What I’ve observed is that some goalie coaches, especially those veterans who have been around for a while, cultivate a group beneath them, where those coaches learn from a central figure who holds extensive expertise,” stated Coach Peter Laviolette. “(Allaire) might be that central figure, akin to a guru who imparts vast knowledge to the younger coaches.”
“I know he communicates with the new goalie coach daily,” Shesterkin noted regarding Allaire. “I believe the practices remain unchanged.”
Shesterkin and Jonathan Quick may not share the same level of familiarity with Malcolm as Garand and Louis Domingue. Some teams frequently rotate through goalie coaches, while others maintain consistency.
In recent years, goalies such as Domingue and Quick have switched teams frequently. The stability that the Rangers have enjoyed with their goaltending coach, Allaire—who spent nearly two decades on the ice nearly every day with NHL goalies—is a rarity in the league.
Both Garand and Domingue appreciate that Malcolm doesn’t aim to mold his goalies into a uniform style. “He always prioritizes the individual above everything else,” noted Domingue. “By building a relationship like that as our foundation, we definitely enhance our performance.”
“Malcs has been fantastic at comprehending my game and identifying what works for me to bring out my best,” Garand remarked. “He really understands his players, knows their needs, and figures out how to support them. He’s taught me an immense amount. We’ve analyzed plenty of video together that has been beneficial for me.”
Fresh off first playoff action, Carrick excited for New York
After spending the majority of his career with the rebuilding Anaheim Ducks, Sam Carrick finally had a taste of postseason hockey when he was traded to Edmonton at the 2024 deadline. The Oilers came within one victory of claiming the Stanley Cup, with Carrick participating in 10 playoff games.
“It was absolutely thrilling to play in a city buzzing with excitement over the team and the playoffs,” the center mentioned, recalling his game in the Cup Final. “It’s kind of a blur; everything was very hectic. But I learned so much from that group.”
In free agency, Carrick joined another contender by signing a three-year contract with the Rangers, valued at an average annual value of $1 million. This opportunity opened when GM Chris Drury placed alternate captain Barclay Goodrow on waivers, allowing San Jose to claim him and his contract with a $3.641 million AAV.
Goodrow, a two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Tampa Bay Lightning, had a difficult season in 2023-24, managing just 12 points over 80 games. Yet, he played a significant role in the Rangers’ journey to the conference final, scoring six goals in the playoffs, including an overtime winner against Florida. When addressing how his offseason transaction was handled for the first time, he shared with San Jose reporters, “I have a lot of different opinions on what happened, but I’ll choose to keep those to myself.”
Carrick doesn’t have the same impressive history as Goodrow, who managed an average of 25.33 points per season during his time in New York. However, the Rangers believed it was crucial to enhance their salary cap flexibility. They are relying on the newcomer to take on a comparable role at a significantly reduced cost.
“He’s a player who competes with an edge, plays with some snarl, and brings grit to his game,” Laviolette remarked. “Once he gets into games, his style will likely become more obvious. We think he can play hard and maintain that competitive edge.”
“I think we can turn into the hardest line for opponents to face,” potential linemate Matt Rempe expressed. “That would be incredible. No one would dare challenge us.”
Carrick achieved 10 goals and 16 points in the 2023-24 season, marking the second-best figures of his career. His scoring rate improved following his trade to the Oilers. According to Dom Luszczyszyn’s Net Rating model, he has a negative Offensive Rating but a zero Defensive Rating, which is acceptable for a player on the fourth line. Carrick also adds value in the faceoff circle, having won 53.4 percent of his draws last year. Additionally, Laviolette mentioned that he will be utilized on the penalty kill.
As a father of two young children—ages 5 and 2—Carrick characterized his decision to join the Rangers as one made for family reasons. He expressed happiness about securing a multi-year deal and referred to the Rangers as “a well-oiled machine.”
“It’s everything you seek in a playoff-caliber team,” he noted.
Chytil eager to demonstrate full potential
Filip Chytil does not regard his performance during the 2024 postseason as a true reflection of his abilities as a player. After missing over six months due to a concussion, he returned just in time for playoff action against Carolina. Unfortunately, he did not register a point in six games against the Carolina Hurricanes and Florida Panthers, finishing with a minus-3 rating.
“That was only 10 percent of my capability,” he stated.
The 25-year-old quickly got back to work in his home country of Czechia after New York’s elimination. He felt little need for a lengthy break after such a significant absence from the ice.
“When I played, I reminded myself of the speed required in crucial games,” he reflected. “I started training with my skills coach just five days after the season wrapped up. I retained that game speed in my mind.”
Chytil, who scored 45 points during the 2022-23 season, valued the opportunity given to him by the Rangers to rejoin the team for the postseason. Even while sidelined, he remained close to the team—a factor he missed deeply during his time away. Laviolette is confident that the playoff experience has positioned him well for the summer, noting that Chytil returned in “very good shape” and is without restrictions.
Chytil dismissed any inquiries about feeling anxious about contact, given his injury history. He mentioned that he had taken hits during playoff games and felt fine afterward.
“If I were afraid, I could choose to play in some fourth-league team in Czechia and enjoy my life,” he remarked.
Chytil delivered a strong performance in his first preseason game against Boston, scoring a power play goal and assisting on Alex Belzile’s game-winning goal while logging 22:34 of ice time.
After missing several months last season due to a concussion, Filip Chytil returned for six playoff games. (Bruce Bennett / Getty Images)
Kakko Aiming for a Comeback Season
Similar to Chytil, Kaapo Kakko is aiming for a successful comeback this year. He registered just 13 goals and 19 points over 61 games last season, having missed time due to a lower-body injury. This marked a decrease from his 40-point performance in the 2022-23 season.
As camp approaches, Drury commented that Kakko, who was selected No. 2 in the 2019 draft, “admittedly didn’t have the best year.” Throughout the offseason, he was on the trade radar, but no deals materialized.
When asked on Saturday if he wished to continue with the Rangers, Kakko answered without hesitation. “Yeah, I wanted to come back here,” he stated. He also addressed whether he believes he can have a breakout season.
“I feel like that’s a question I get every year when I return here,” he noted. “Two years ago, I thought I had my best season, and I felt prepared to have a similar year last time. It seems this is the recurring question every summer. Perhaps this year, I should focus less on that and simply do my best. Hopefully, it will happen.”
Kakko spent the summer training in his hometown of Turku, Finland, alongside fellow NHL players, including Mikko Rantanen.
Laviolette has paired Kakko with Chytil at center and Will Cuylle on the left wing to kick off the preseason. Kakko is familiar with both players: he shared a line with Cuylle at various points last season, and he and Chytil have built a rapport over their five years as teammates.
“There’s definitely a connection,” Chytil remarked, highlighting his speed and playmaking skills along with Kakko’s puck strength. “We don’t even need to communicate; it’s just there. We’ve been clicking since our first season together.”
(Top photo of Igor Shesterkin: Bruce Bennett / Getty Images)
Contract Talks Loom as Igor Shesterkin Reflects on Future with Rangers
The Current State of Igor Shesterkin
Igor Shesterkin, the standout goaltender for the New York Rangers, has become a pivotal figure in the NHL. His exceptional skills and remarkable performance have not only earned him accolades but have also put him in a crucial position as contract talks approach.
Shesterkin’s Journey with the Rangers
- Drafted: Shesterkin was selected by the Rangers in the 4th round of the 2014 NHL Draft.
- Debut: Made his NHL debut in the 2019-2020 season, quickly establishing himself as a key player.
- Achievements: Winner of the Vezina Trophy in the 2021-2022 season.
Contract Negotiation Landscape
As the 2023-2024 NHL season progresses, Shesterkin’s entry into contract negotiations creates a mix of excitement and uncertainty for fans and the organization. His current contract, which runs until the end of the season, has opened discussions on whether he will stay with the Rangers long-term.
Key Factors Influencing Contract Talks
- Performance Metrics: Shesterkin’s performance statistics will play a significant role in negotiations. His save percentage, goals-against average, and overall impact on games are critical data points.
- Market Trends: The current market for goaltenders influences contract expectations. Recently signed contracts for top goaltenders set a precedent for negotiations.
- Team Dynamics: The Rangers’ overall team strategy and cap space will be crucial in determining how much they can allocate towards retaining Shesterkin.
Impressive Career Statistics
| Season | Games Played | Wins | Losses | Save Percentage | Goals Against Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019-2020 | 12 | 10 | 2 | .932 | 2.52 |
| 2020-2021 | 35 | 16 | 14 | .916 | 2.62 |
| 2021-2022 | 53 | 36 | 13 | .935 | 2.07 |
| 2022-2023 | 62 | 39 | 18 | .917 | 2.48 |
Shesterkin’s Perspective on His Future
In recent interviews, Igor Shesterkin expressed a desire to remain with the Rangers, citing his commitment to the team and the city. His reflections on the future indicate a strong emotional connection, making him a favorite among fans and management alike.
What Shesterkin Values
- Team Culture: Shesterkin has highlighted the positive atmosphere within the Rangers organization, which he finds motivating.
- Fan Support: The passionate Rangers fans have made a significant impact on his experience, further solidifying his attachment to the team.
- Development Opportunities: The coaching staff’s commitment to player development has helped him refine his skills and enhance his game.
Benefits of Retaining Shesterkin
Retaining Igor Shesterkin offers numerous benefits for the New York Rangers, including:
- Stability in Goal: Shesterkin’s consistent performance provides the Rangers with a reliable netminder, crucial for playoff aspirations.
- Leadership Qualities: As a standout player, his presence on the ice can inspire younger players and create a winning culture.
- Marketability: His star power can enhance the team’s brand and attract sponsors and fans alike.
Potential Challenges in Contract Negotiations
While the desire to keep Shesterkin is strong, there are challenges that need to be navigated:
- Cap Space Management: The Rangers must balance Shesterkin’s salary with other key players under contract.
- Negotiation Dynamics: Contract discussions can be complex, particularly if both parties have differing expectations.
- External Interest: Other teams may see Shesterkin as a prime target, further complicating retention efforts.
Case Studies: Recent Goaltender Contracts
Looking at recent goaltender contracts can provide insight into what Shesterkin might expect. Below is a brief overview:
| Goaltender | Team | Contract Value | Years</th |
|---|---|---|---|
| Igor Shesterkin | New York Rangers | To Be Determined | X (Pending) |
| Igor Bobrovsky | Florida Panthers | $10 million | 7 |
| Andrei Vasilevskiy | Tampa Bay Lightning | $9.5 million | 8 |
| Juuse Saros | Nashville Predators | $5 million | 4 |
Practical Tips for Navigating Contract Talks
For fans and analysts eager to understand the contract negotiation process, here are some practical tips:
- Stay Informed: Follow beat writers and reputable sports analysts for updates on negotiations.
- Understand the Market: Familiarize yourself with the current landscape of goaltender contracts and salary cap implications.
- Engage in Discussions: Join forums or social media groups dedicated to Rangers discussions to share insights and predictions.
First-Hand Experiences from NHL Contract Negotiations
Former players often share their experiences regarding contract negotiations, providing valuable lessons:
- Listen to Experts: Many players emphasize the importance of listening to agents and financial advisors during discussions.
- Be Patient: Negotiations can take time; staying patient often leads to better outcomes.
- Focus on Team Goals: Aligning personal goals with team objectives can create a more favorable negotiating environment.
Looking Ahead: Shesterkin’s Impact on Rangers’ Future
The upcoming contract negotiations will play a pivotal role in shaping not only Shesterkin’s future but also the Rangers’ trajectory. His remarkable abilities and leadership qualities make him an indispensable asset, and both fans and management eagerly await the outcome of these discussions.
