Igor Shesterkin has quickly become one of the most electrifying and reliable goaltenders in the NHL. Known for his quick reflexes, calm demeanor, and game-stealing performances, he is the backbone of the New York Rangers and a fan favorite both in New York and in his native Russia. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive breakdown of his personal life, career, earnings, and more.
Igor Shesterkin’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
| Name | Igor Olegovich Shesterkin |
| Nickname | “The Czar” (among fans), “Shesty” |
| Born | December 30, 1995, Moscow, Russia |
| Age | 29 Years |
| College | N/A |
| Nationality | Russian |
| Height | 6 ft 1 in (185 cm) |
| Weight | 183 lb (83 kg) |
| Position | Goaltender |
| Catches | Left |
| NHL Team | New York Rangers |
| Draft | 118th overall, 2014 (New York Rangers) |
| Turned Pro | 2014 |
| Net Worth | Estimated $5 million |
| Salary | $11.5 million average annual value (AAV); $15.8 million cash in 2025-26 |
| Girlfriend | Anna Butusova |
| Relationship Status | In a committed relationship with Anna Butusova |
| Child | Son, Timofey Igorevich Shesterkin |
| Instagram Profile | @shesterkinigor31 |
Early Career
Igor Shesterkin began his hockey journey in Moscow, rising through Russian junior leagues before making his professional debut with Spartak Moscow in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) at just 17. His raw talent quickly caught the attention of scouts, and he was drafted by the New York Rangers in 2014. He continued to develop his skills with SKA St. Petersburg, where he became known for his poise and athleticism.
Professional Career
Shesterkin’s professional career took off in the KHL, where he played for SKA St. Petersburg and won the Gagarin Cup in 2017. He posted record-breaking stats, including a 1.11 goals-against average and a .953 save percentage in his final KHL season. After signing with the Rangers in 2019, he quickly established himself as their top goaltender.
In his first full NHL season, he won the Vezina Trophy (2022) as the league’s best goalie. By 2025, Shesterkin had played over 270 NHL games, amassing more than 160 wins and 20 shutouts, and became the highest-paid goalie in NHL history with his eight-year, $92 million contract extension.
Igor Shesterkin’s Net Worth Details
As of 2025, Igor Shesterkin’s net worth is estimated at around $5 million, but this figure is set to rise sharply with his new contract, which makes him the highest-paid goalie in NHL history. With an average annual salary of $11.5 million and significant signing bonuses, his financial profile is among the elite in the sport.
Prize Money
| Year | Team | Base Salary | Signing Bonus | Total Cash Earned |
| 2019 | NY Rangers | $367,032 | $92,500 | $459,532 |
| 2020 | NY Rangers | $660,284 | $92,500 | $752,784 |
| 2021 | NY Rangers | $2,000,000 | $1,000,000 | $3,000,000 |
| 2022 | NY Rangers | $6,000,000 | $6,000,000 | $10,212,316 |
| 2023 | NY Rangers | $5,000,000 | $2,000,000 | $7,000,000 |
| 2024 | NY Rangers | $6,666,667 | $6,666,667 | $23,878,983* |
| 2025 | NY Rangers | $775,000 | $15,050,000 | $15,825,000 |
Endorsements
- Official merchandise with Adidas and Fanatics, including jerseys, t-shirts, and collectibles
- Brand ambassador roles (details not publicly disclosed)
- Appearances and speaking engagements for corporate and sports events
- Social media collaborations through his Instagram presence
Career Records
| Opponent | Notable Achievement/Record | Description |
| Sidney Crosby | Toughest Opponent | Shesterkin has named Crosby as hardest to stop |
| Jack Hughes | Notable Opponent | Highlighted for elite scoring ability |
| Nathan MacKinnon | Notable Opponent | Recognized for powerful shot and skill |
| Pittsburgh Penguins | 79 Saves in Playoff Game | Rangers record for most saves in a playoff game |
| NHL (2021-22) | Vezina Trophy Winner | Best goaltender in the league |
FAQs
1. Who is Igor Shesterkin?
Igor Shesterkin is a Russian professional ice hockey goaltender who plays for the New York Rangers in the NHL. He was born on December 30, 1995, in Moscow, Russia, and was drafted by the Rangers in the fourth round, 118th overall, of the 2014 NHL Entry Draft.
2. What major awards has Igor Shesterkin won?
Shesterkin won the Vezina Trophy as the NHL’s best goaltender in the 2021–22 season and has been selected to the NHL All-Star Game multiple times. He was also a finalist for the Hart Trophy in 2022.
3. What is Igor Shesterkin’s contract status with the New York Rangers?
In December 2024, Shesterkin signed an eight-year, $92 million contract extension with the Rangers, making him the highest-paid goalie in the NHL at the time.
4. What are Shesterkin’s most notable career achievements?
Shesterkin’s achievements include winning the Vezina Trophy (2022), being named to multiple NHL All-Star Games, winning a gold medal at the 2018 Winter Olympics with Russia (as a non-playing member), and capturing the Gagarin Cup with SKA St. Petersburg in the KHL.
5. How has Shesterkin performed statistically in the NHL?
As of the end of the 2024–25 season, Shesterkin has played over 270 NHL games, recording more than 160 wins, a career goals-against average around 2.52, and a save percentage of approximately .917.
6. What is Shesterkin’s playing style and strengths?
Shesterkin is known for his hybrid goaltending style, excellent reflexes, strong positioning, and quick lateral movement. He excels in high-pressure situations and is praised for his rebound control and save ability on breakaways.
7. What international experience does Shesterkin have?
Shesterkin has represented Russia in several international tournaments, including the World Championships and the Olympics. He was part of the gold medal-winning Olympic Athletes from Russia team in 2018, though he did not play in any games during the tournament.
8. How quickly did Shesterkin reach 100 NHL wins?
Shesterkin became the fastest goaltender in New York Rangers history to reach 100 wins, accomplishing this milestone in just 159 games.
9. What jersey number does Igor Shesterkin wear and what is his physical profile?
Shesterkin wears number 31 for the Rangers. He stands 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighs about 183 pounds.
10. What is Shesterkin’s reputation among NHL goaltenders since 2021?
Since the 2021–22 season, Shesterkin has ranked among the league’s elite, being second in wins and save percentage, and third in goals-against average among goaltenders with at least 100 games played.