The countdown to Oct. 9 doesn't just mark the start of the Rangers' 2024-25 season.
Igor Shesterkin has stressed his desire to focus on his game when answering questions about his upcoming unrestricted free agency next summer, which makes it unlikely negotiations will take place this season unless they resume in the next two weeks or so, as first reported by The Athletic, The Post has confirmed.
As The Post reported in June, industry sources reaffirmed the $12 million annual average figure as the target for Shesterkin's camp.
I like to keep distractions to a minimum during the season, but of course that can change at any time.
There were preliminary talks between the Rangers and Shesterkin's camp earlier in the summer, but no deal has been finalized, which naturally indicates the two sides are not on the same page.
The longer Shesterkin goes without a contract, the more precarious the situation becomes for the Rangers.
If the Russian star goaltender is allowed to take next season off without a new contract with the Rangers, there will surely be competition among teams that can afford to give Shesterkin what he wants.
The 28-year-old Shesterkin expressed his love for the Rangers and New York, but also spoke the truth: “You never know what's going to happen.” There's little chance the Rangers will get a hometown discount.
Shesterkin's camp has the advantage, but the ball is in the Rangers' court. Shesterkin has been one of the Blueshirts' best and most important players, and his .921 save percentage over the past three seasons ranks second in the NHL.
His .929 save percentage in the playoffs since the 2021-22 season is the best among NHL goalies with at least 20 playoff appearances.
Shesterkin is expected to become the highest-paid goaltender in NHL history to ever wear a Rangers uniform.
