"I’m sure Ovi needs another Russian" "He better stay with us": Fans react as Rangers' Igor Shesterkin nears unrestricted free agency after next season

New York Rangers have a big decision to make as goalie Igor Shesterkin nears free agency after next season. In 2021, Shesterkin signed a lucrative deal worth $22.667 million over four years. He wants a $12 million contract per year, aiming to match Henrik Lundqvist's legacy.

Despite Shesterkin's strong play, his camp's salary request could be up to 12% of the 2025-26 salary cap. However, the Rangers' challenges extend beyond goaltending, affecting their Stanley Cup ambitions.

NHL Network posted on X (formerly Twitter), asking:

"What should the 28-year-old's next contract look like?"

Fans on X started discussing his contract talks.

"No clue but I’m sure Ovi needs another Russian alongside him," one fan said.

"He better stay with us," another fan commented.

"He’s 29 as of 12/30/24 he should have a solid 6-8 years left if healthy giving extra term to lower the AAV should be the play maybe something like 8 years 70M-75M," one X user said.

Take a look at some reactions from NHL fans on X.

"This will be Henrik Lundquist relived and over pay for a goalie taking cap from other needs," one fan said.

"Give this man 15% of the Rangers salarycap and call it a night," a fan tweeted.

"10 years for a f**k ton of money," the fan commented.

New York Rangers strengthen defense with Braden Schneider's re-signing and focus on Ryan Lindgren's extension

On Saturday, the New York Rangers completed their offseason by re-signing defenseman Braden Schneider to a two-year contract worth $4.4 million. This agreement strengthens their defensive lineup, setting Schneider to probably team up with K’Andre Miller next season.

Schneider feels confident after a good year and looks to keep getting better with the team's support.

“I think this year, I feel like with the staff we got, I felt like I’ve learned a ton,” Schneider said (via New York Post). “I feel like I’ve gained a ton of confidence. A great opportunity. I think I just gotta make sure I keep building on my game.

His contract, along with Jacob Trouba's, helps the team handle their salary cap well. Looking ahead, the Rangers prioritize re-signing Ryan Lindgren, who is crucial for their defense and highly valued by teammates and fans. Lindgren's arbitration filing starts negotiations for a long-term deal.

“I love it here. It’s the best,” Lindgren said. “I love the guys here. I love the city and how loyal the fans are, how much they care about us. I love being here and it’s definitely where I want to be.”

GM Chris Drury focuses on signing Lindgren before the new season.