Carey Price's Legacy Shapes the Future of NHL Goaltender Contracts
Carey Price, the iconic NHL goalie, may have retired earlier than expected due to a persistent injury, but his influence continues to echo throughout the league. Price's substantial role in setting the financial expectations for top-tier goaltenders remains a benchmark in NHL economics.
The legendary netminder's final contract with the Montreal Canadiens was a hefty $10.5 million AAV, capturing 14% of the team's salary cap at the time. This precedent is not just a historical footnote; it actively shapes current contract negotiations, notably that of Igor Shesterkin of the New York Rangers.
« Friedman on Shesterkin's next contract (TJMS): "You're the one who brought up Carey Price, who is 10.5, is the key number here, if you look at when Carey Price signed that deal, percentage of the cap was 14%, I believe, if you look at 14%, it's 12-something... »
Elliotte Friedman, a noted NHL insider, recently discussed the potential implications of Price's past contract on Shesterkin's negotiations, suggesting that a similar percentage of the salary cap might be appropriate for the Rangers' goalie given his performance. Shesterkin, like Price, has been instrumental in keeping his team competitive, often turning games around almost single-handedly.
Shesterkin's reported contract demand, which exceeds $12 million AAV, mirrors the market rate established by Price. This figure is not considered excessive when considering Shesterkin's impact. His stellar play during the regular season and his pivotal role in extending the Rangers' playoff run against the Panthers underscore his value.
The debate around goaltender valuation is intensifying, with Shesterkin at the forefront, representing not just a financial investment but a strategic commitment to a player seen as indispensable. As the NHL evolves, the echoes of Carey Price's legacy in goalie negotiations are a reminder of the substantial impact one player's contract can have on the broader landscape of the league.
