At least this time when asked about working out a contract extension with the New York Rangers, Igor Shesterkin didn’t claim to not understand the question because he doesn’t speak English.
That’s how the star goalie jokingly handled an inquiry last June on breakup day after the Rangers were eliminated by the Florida Panthers in six games in the Eastern Conference Final.
Friday at MSG Training Center, Shesterkin provided some answers but no update on where talks with the Rangers stand, less than 10 months before he’s eligible to become an unrestricted free agent July 1.
What he did say was mostly positive. Mostly.
“I love the organization, I love the team, I love the fans,” Shesterkin told reporters . “So, of course, it would be great to stay here. But you never know what can happen.”
It’s that last part that could send a shiver down the back of Rangers general manager Chris Drury. It’s a simple, and true, statement. But it does sound a bit ominous.
Drury already stated earlier in the week that signing Shesterkin to a long-term contract is a priority, as well it should be.