NHL Rumors: Rangers Will Have Salary Cap Problems Next Offseason
According to Jim Biringer, the team’s most pressing concern is re-signing star goaltender Igor Shesterkin, who will be a free agent and is expected to command a massive deal.
Shesterkin’s camp is reportedly seeking a contract in the $11 million range, which would make him the highest-paid goalie in the league.
This potential salary would further strain the Rangers' already tight cap situation and force the team to make difficult decisions. As Biringer put it, "It’s going to be a bear to put together that roster next season."
Every goalie in NHL history to have a higher career win percentage than Igor Shesterkin:
— RangersMuse (@nyrangersmuse) September 24, 2024
— Ken Dryden
Pay Shesty. pic.twitter.com/OZREByLHr2
In addition to Shesterkin, the Rangers must also deal with restricted free agents Alexis Lafreniere and K’Andre Miller, both of whom have arbitration rights.
Lafreniere, coming off a bridge deal, could command a contract starting around $7 million, while Miller is expected to seek a deal in the $5.5 to $6 million range.
Both players are key to the Rangers' future, and their next contracts will add to the team's financial pressure.
With big-money deals already locked in for stars like Artemi Panarin ($11 million), Adam Fox ($9.5 million), and Mika Zibanejad, the team will be hard-pressed to keep their core intact.
Every player younger than 23 that scored more than 25 even strength goals last season:
— StatMuse Hockey (@statmusehockey) September 30, 2024
— Wyatt Johnston
— Alexis Lafreniere pic.twitter.com/r5bf0bWRLi
As Biringer highlights, "This will probably be the last crack for this core," emphasizing the urgency for the Rangers to make the most of their current window of contention.
Photo Credit: Danny Wild-Imagn Images
Post a Comment