Rangers Sign Lundqvist for 6 years
According to John Dellapina over at the Daily News, the Rangers have signed #1 goaltender Henrik Lundqvist to a 6-year deal for somewhere in the neighborhood of $39 million.
Lately, the Swede’s play on the ice has been streaky. Since December, he has been giving up goals that he used to save, giving up juicy rebounds, and generally just not playing like the goalie we’ve all come to know and love. Despite his less than stellar play, we should note that without Lundqvist, the Rangers (who are at least in a position to make the playoffs) would probably be back where they were in 2004 – looking up from the bottom of the standings.
It’s possible that Lundqvist’s play can be excused by considering the weighty off-ice issues that might be on his mind. From the uncertainty about his future here in New York to the health of his father, Lundqvist has had a lot to deal with this season. Though he insists that his father’s surgery was not a valid excuse for his recent play, it had to have been wearing on him.
But now his father is on the road to recovery and he has a long term deal in place. Hopefully, this new job security will enable Lundqvist to pick up his play (and pick up the Rangers) for the last 2 and a half months of the season.
About the author: Eric is an engineering student originally from Long Island, NY, currently studying at Drexel University in Philadelphia. His all-time favorite Rangers are Mike Richter and Petr Prucha. Currently, his favorite players are Henrik Lundqvist, Ryan Callahan, and Marian Gaborik. Related posts:
