In a groundbreaking move for the National Hockey League, the New York Rangers have secured their star goaltender, Igor Shesterkin, with an unprecedented eight-year contract extension. This agreement, valued at a staggering $92 million, makes Shesterkin the highest-paid goalie in NHL history, surpassing the previous record held by Carey Price with his $84 million contract.
Shesterkin's new contract, which will commence in the 2025-26 season, not only signifies a significant financial commitment by the Rangers but also highlights the league's broader trend of locking in elite talent with long-term deals. The deal will impact the Rangers' salary cap with an average annual value of $11.5 million, running through the 2032-33 season. This strategic move underscores the team's confidence in Shesterkin's ability to anchor their defense for years to come.
Known for his remarkable skills in the net, Shesterkin has already established himself as one of the premier goaltenders in the league. Having won the Vezina Trophy, which recognizes the NHL's top goaltender, Shesterkin has consistently delivered impressive performances that have positioned him among the league's elite. From 2021 to 2024, he saved an extraordinary 79.5 goals above average, with a .921 save percentage, ranking second among regular starters.
One of Shesterkin’s standout seasons was in 2022, where he saved 44.8 goals above average, showcasing his exceptional impact between the pipes. Even this season, his .908 save percentage and 4.52 goals saved above average further reinforce his value to the Rangers and the rationale behind such a substantial investment.
Meanwhile, the league's financial landscape continues to expand as teams prioritize extending the contracts of their pivotal players. This is evident in the recent contract extensions across the NHL. The Golden Knights recently locked in defenseman Brayden McNabb with a three-year extension at a valuation of $3.65 million per year. Additionally, the Toronto Maple Leafs extended Jake McCabe's contract through the 2028-29 season, with an average annual value of $4.51 million.
Across the league, other teams are also making significant moves to secure their future. In St. Louis, the Blues extended Jake Neighbours' contract through the 2026-27 season. A promising talent, Neighbours, the No. 26 overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft, demonstrated his scoring prowess last season with 27 goals in 77 games.
In Dallas, goaltender Jake Oettinger, who boasts a .913 save percentage and 4.1 goals saved above average in 19 postseason appearances, continues to be a cornerstone for the Stars. Meanwhile, the Senators bolstered their lineup by acquiring 2023 Vezina Trophy winner Linus Ullmark through a trade and securing him with a four-year extension.
On the other side of the league's financial negotiations, Jeremy Swayman re-signed with the Bruins, concluding what was described as tough offseason negotiations, ensuring Boston retains one of its promising goaltending talents.
The NHL's current trend of securing high-caliber players with extended contracts signifies a shift in how teams value and invest in their rosters. As the league grows and evolves, these long-term commitments not only provide stability for the teams but also emphasize the players' roles in shaping the franchises' futures. Igor Shesterkin's record-breaking contract with the New York Rangers is a testament to this ongoing evolution in the NHL, heralding a new era of financial and competitive dynamics within professional hockey.