The New York Rangers split from Henrik Lundqvist on Wednesday, buying the final year of the franchise’s all-time leader’s contract in goalkeeper wins (459) and games played (887), as well as in the playoffs (61).
Lundqvist, 38, allegedly had a cap of $8. 5 million in the last year of a seven-year, $59. 5 million contract he signed in 2013.
Rangers will have a cap of $5. 5 million, but will erase the remaining $3 million. Repurchase will also result in a $1. 5 million fine opposed to the cap in 2021-22.
“Representing this organization has been the greatest source of pride and joy in my life,” Lundqvist tweeted. “I am very grateful for this opportunity, for friendships and for all the intelligent memories created with red, white and blue. my time as a Ranger. “
Representing this organization has been the greatest source of pride and joy in my life. I am very grateful for this opportunity, for friendships and for all the intelligent memories created with red, white and blue. I’ll appreciate my time as Ranger.
Lundqvist, a long-standing Hall of Fame member, spent 15 seasons with the Rangers, winning a Vezina Trophy for the 2011–12 season while completing a total of 10 times in the six most sensible of voting. He played 130 playoff games and led Rangers to an East Conference name in 2013-14, leaving a Stanley Cup name as the only missing on his résumé.
But Lundqvist has noticed that his ice time has been minimized over the past two seasons, especially this year after rookie Igor Shesterkin’s long-awaited debut. The Russian recorded a 10-2 record with an Array932 save percentage to temporarily identify as the Rangers’ number one goalkeeper, restricting Lundqvist to four regular-season starters after January 2.
With Shesterkin declared “unfit to play” in the first two games of the August qualifying circular as opposed to the Carolina Hurricanes, Lundqvist was able to make his last appearances as Ranger. He published a GAA of 3. 52 and an Array901 savings percentage in any of the losses, with Shesterkin returning from an injury to lose the third game.
HORS-SAISON BESOINS: What awaits Lightning, Stars after the playoffs?
STARS: Captain Jamie Benn’s heartbreaking interview is to see
Shesterkin’s appearance, along with the presence of compatriot Alexandar Georgiev, 24, sounded the death sentence for Lundqvist. General manager Jeff Gorton said last month that they have no three goalkeeper plans for the 2020-2021 season.
“We’d like to thank Henrik for his immeasurable contributions to the New York Rangers,” Rangers President John Davidson said. “Since I met Henrik when he arrived in New York in 2005, he has been a complete professional. His tireless paintings Ethics, Love of Play and Love for Rangers and New York have allowed him to become one of the greatest hockey goalkeepers and one of the most productive players in the history of our franchise. “
Lundqvist’s inauguration comes days after the Rangers traded their older skater, defenseman Marc Staal, and a second-round selection to the Detroit Red Wings in exchange for long-term considerations. Due to the combined combined salary, they will end up with more than $23 million in ceiling space.
Vincent Z. Mercogliano is the New York Rangers reporter for USA TODAY. Follow him on Twitter @vzmercogliano.