Contract-extension talks between the New York Rangers and star goaltender Igor Shesterkin are not going well, apparently.
According to Arthur Staple and Peter Baugh from The Athletic, sources say that the two sides are “not remotely close” to agreeing on a new deal.
Shesterkin is entering the final season of a four-year, $22.67 million contract and could become an unrestricted free agent.
He posted a 36-17-2 record, 2.58 goals-against average and .912 save percentage over 55 games last season.
“I love the team, I love the fans, so of course it will be great to stay here,” Shesterkin told reporters last Friday, according to Staple and Baugh. “But you never know what’s going to happen.”
Shesterkin was a draft steal for the Rangers, who selected him in the fourth round, 118th overall, in 2014.
The 28-year-old from Moscow posted career bests during the 2021-22 season with a 2.07 GAA and .935 save percentage as he captured the Vezina Trophy and was a finalist for the Hart Memorial Trophy.
Shesterkin holds a career 135-59-17 record, 2.43 GAA and .921 save percentage over five seasons with the Rangers.