Report: Shesterkin does not want to sign long-term with the Rangers

UPDATE: Insider Cam Robinson is now reporting that Shesterkin is 'more keen' on a short-term deal and would prefer not to sign an 8 year contract with the Rangers. Robinson reports that a five year or even a two year deal might be Shesterkin's preference.

From Robinson:

Read below for our earlier story, based on a report from NHL insider Kevin Weekes.

During training camp, New York Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin informed both the club and the media that he will not be negotiating a contract extension during the 2024-25 season. Meaning that if the Rangers can't get Shesterkin signed to a new deal before the puck drops on the season today, then they'll have to wait until the offseason to get a deal done.

Well... the Rangers took their best shot at it, but it appears that Shesterkin will indeed head into the season with no long-term commitment.

NHL insider Kevin Weekes reports this morning that the Rangers tendered an eight year deal worth $11 million per season and that the offer was rejected by Shesterkin.

From Weekes:

As Weekes points out, this offer would have made Shesterkin the richest goaltender in NHL history. 

Shesterkin is slated to become an unrestricted free agent and free to sign with any team he wants next offseason.

“I love the team, I love the fans, so of course it will be great to stay here. But you never know what’s going to happen,” Shesterkin said when training camp opened in September. “It’s work for my agent,” Shesterkin said. “I just want to be focused on my game, on practice every day.”

Mollie Walker of The New York Post reports that Shesterkin is aiming to become the highest paid goalie in the NHL and is looking for a long-term contract that will pay him $12 million annually. Should that be the case, the Rangers will need to make some serious changes to free up salary. Captain Jacob Trouba is likely on the chopping block and it remains to be seen what happens with the likes of Chris Kreider and Artemi Panarin. 

Nervous, Blueshirts fans?