Grading NY Rangers Goaltending against Florida Panthers

Goaltender Igor Shesterkin made 26 saves in Thursday 3-1 loss to the reigning Stanley Cup champion, the Florida Panthers.

All three Panthers tallies came on failed clearing attempts or defensive-zone giveaways by the Rangers, and two of them came in the first three minutes of the first period.

It was the first regulation loss of the season for Shesterkin, who has been generally stellar with a 4-1-1 record, 2.16 GAA and .926 save percentage through six starts. It was also the first time this season New York gave its star netminder less than four goals of support.

And honestly, Shesterkin deserved better from his defense on Oct. 24.

Everyone has been speculating whether or not the Rangers will pay Igor Shesterkin. The world-class goalie is seeking a contract to make him the highest-paid goalie of all time — a price tag that is unclear whether or not New York is willing to pay. However, so far this season, Shesterkin is proving to be worth the lofty price.

He previously turned down an eight-year deal from the Rangers that included $11 million per year — which would have made him the highest-paid goalie in NHL history.

According to Sports Illustrated, after Shesterkin turned down the previously referenced deal, there is talk that he might be looking for $12 million or more. The Rangers are likely going to pay up, given the worth he has proven on the line.

Shesterkin signed with the Rangers on May 3, 2019 and began the season with Hartford of the American Hockey League, where he went 17-4-3 with a 1.90 GAA and .934 save percentage. The Rangers recalled him on Jan. 6, 2020. He won his NHL debut the next night by making 29 saves in a 5-3 victory against the Colorado Avalanche.

So far this season, the Moscow native has played in all six games and boasts one shutout in addition to .926 save percentage.