Igor Shesterkin, the dynamic talent between the pipes for the New York Rangers, has set a new benchmark in the National Hockey League (NHL) as he inks an unprecedented eight-year contract extension valued at $92 million. This colossal deal not only highlights Shesterkin’s individual brilliance but also positions him as the highest-paid goaltender in NHL history, surpassing the previous record held by Carey Price at $84 million.
The 2025-26 season will mark the beginning of Shesterkin's new contract, significantly impacting the Rangers’ salary cap with an impressive average annual value of $11.5 million. This long-term commitment underscores the Rangers’ belief in their star, who has been a cornerstone in their playoff pursuits over the past several seasons.
Shesterkin’s performance has been nothing short of stellar since his arrival in the league. From 2021 to 2024, he saved an astonishing 79.5 goals above average, highlighting his ability to repeatedly thwart opposing offenses. During the standout 2022 season, he single-handedly saved 44.8 goals above average, emphasizing not only his skill but his critical impact on the Rangers’ defensive strategy.
His .921 save percentage over those years ranks second among regular starting goaltenders, further validating his elite status in the league. This season, while perhaps not as sparkling, Shesterkin still maintains a respectable .908 save percentage and has saved 4.52 goals above average. His consistency and competitive edge make him indispensable for the Rangers as they look to fortify their goaltending for many years to come.
With the NHL expanding its financial commitments to key players, the Rangers’ decision to lock in Shesterkin with a long-term deal is reflective of a broader trend. The league has witnessed several high-profile contract negotiations this season. For instance, the Golden Knights secured Brayden McNabb on a three-year extension worth $3.65 million annually, and the Toronto Maple Leafs extended Jake McCabe’s contract with an average annual value of $4.51 million, showing that NHL teams are investing significantly in their players' futures.
Elsewhere in the league, Jake Neighbours has extended his tenure with the St. Louis Blues through the 2026-27 season. Neighbours, who was the No. 26 overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft, demonstrated his growing offensive prowess by netting 27 goals in 77 games last season. Meanwhile, the Dallas Stars continue to benefit from the reliable postseason consistency of Jake Oettinger, who has maintained a .913 save percentage across 19 playoff appearances, saving 4.1 goals above average.
Adding to the flurry of goalie-related news, Linus Ullmark, fresh off a Vezina Trophy-winning season in 2023, was traded to the Senators and promptly signed a four-year extension, indicating that teams across the league are strategically securing their last lines of defense.
In Boston, Jeremy Swayman successfully negotiated a new contract with the Bruins, ensuring that another solid goaltender remains a focal point for a team aiming for continued success. These extensive player deals underscore a league-wide recognition of the indispensable value elite goaltenders and skaters bring to their teams.
In the ever-evolving sport of hockey, Shesterkin’s record-setting contract not only sets a new standard for goaltender compensation but also could influence future negotiations and salary cap strategies for teams aiming to retain top-tier talent. As Shesterkin guards the crease for the Rangers through the 2032-33 season, he will not only define his legacy with his on-ice performance but also through an enduring impact on contract philosophies in the NHL.