Leon Draisaitl’s record-setting contract doesn't just impact the Edmonton Oilers. On Tuesday, Draisaitl became the highest paid player in NHL history after agreeing to an eight-year, $112 million contract, which will pay him $14 million per season. The New York Rangers are the team most affected by this contract. Next offseason, Igor Shesterkin is set to become an unrestricted free agent and it’s rumored he is looking to get paid in the $12 million range. Shesterkin is clearly the Rangers’ anchor and by the way he played last year in the playoffs, it would be hard for Chris Drury not to give him the contract he is currently seeking. Now with Draisaitl signing this deal, the market has essentially been set for superstar caliber players and it will only get higher as time goes on. The salary cap is expected to rise next year, meaning players could be making money that is unprecedented for the NHL. Sean Avery Illustrates Rangers Perfect Shift The Rangers also have to sign Alexis Lafrenière to a contract extension as his value is rising and K'Andre Miller, a quality defenseman who won’t come at a cheap price. It all comes back to Shesterkin’s upcoming contract though. This deal will make or break the franchise whichever way the organization goes. It’s a major risk to give a goalie upwards of $10 million dollars, but it’s also a risk to give up Shesterkin and potentially fall out of Stanley Cup contention. It will be a big decision for Drury to make and Draisaitl’s contract certainly makes it a more complicated choice.
