Igor $hesterkin got good news today. His agent, too. BIG news as a matter of fact. The avaricious Ranger who's determined to be the richest – though not necessarily the best – goalie in the National Hockey League may soon have his wish granted. Thanks to "NHL Valuations Ranking By Sportico," we've learned that the Rangers are the highest valued American hockey team. According to the Sportico listing, Madison Square Garden's favorite hockey team is worth $3.25 BILLION, an increase of 33% over last year. (The Maple Leafs lead the entire league at $3.66 Billion, a 38% boost since 2023.) What this means is that when agent Slapsy Maxie Moliver demands nothing less than a $13.5 million contract from the majestic manager Chris Drury, the Blueshirts' boss cannot legitimately say, "Sorry, The Garden can't afford it." Igor Shesterkin Has Reportedly Rejected Contract Extension Paying Him $11 Million Per Season Of course, Moneybags Moliver then can shoot back, "The Rangers are worth more than THREE BILLION BUCKS, and you're gonna tell me you guys can't afford it. Do I look like Douglas Dummy-head?" Nor does Drury. His retort courteous will be three words: THE SALARY CAP. Canny Chris is not Douglas Dummy-head either. The Rangers boss does have an ace in the hole but he has to play his cards right. That is, he has to convince Slapsie Maxie that by taking a couple of mil less, Chesty Shesty will be doing himself and his entire Rangers team a benevolent service. By taking a million or two less, Drury will have a mil or two chump change to invest in a defenseman better than the indomitable Jacob (Not Jokes Please) Trouba. "Also," butts in The Old Scout, "Drury can point out that with that little extra 'Team Friendly' concession on Iggy's part, the Rangers might even add a second defenseman to help Shesterkin win another Vezina." And if this sounds like fiction, go back to the irrefutable fact that Rangers are America's wealthiest team from sea to shining sea. Then, flip a coin – or a bank as the case may be – and you'll have the answer!
