New York Rangers G Henrik Lundqvist: Stanley Cup Window Closing
By Ryan Ritchie
New York Rangers G Henrik Lundqvist: Stanley Cup Window Quickly Closing For 11-Year Veteran
New York Rangers G Henrik Lundqvist is entering his 12th NHL season in 2016-17. The 34-year-old veteran took over as starter on Broadway in 2005-06 following the lockout, replacing 2003-04 netminders Mike Dunham (57 GP) and Jussi Markkanen (26 GP).
King Henrik was originally selected 205th overall (7th round) back in 2000 from the Swedish junior ranks. For those who weren’t aware, Hank actually has a twin brother (Joel Lundqvist). The name should sound familiar; Joel was a highly touted European skater in 2000, and wound up being selected 68th overall (3rd round) by Dallas.
He spent three years in North America, appearing in 43 games with the Stars his final season in 2008-09. Not able to cut it at the NHL level, Joel decided to return to Sweden joining Frolunda of the SHL (and was immediately named captain).
He will wear the “C” for his 8th season in 2016-17 and continues to be a productive Swedish player. Joel Lundqvist has suited up for Team Sweden at the World Hockey Championships on five occasions (2009, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015).
New York Rangers G Henrik Lundqvist Career Resume:
– NHL All-Rookie Team (2005-06)
– Three-Time Olympian (2006, 2010, 2014)
– Gold Medal in 2006
– Silver Medal in 2014
– Three All-Star Game Appearances (2008-09, 2010-11, 2011-12)
– Vezina Trophy (NHL’s Top Goalies) – 2010-11
– Has started 62 or more games in 8 of 11 NHL seasons
– 30 or more wins in 10 of 11 NHL seasons
– Career Regular Season Record: 374-229-72, 2.28GAA, .921 Save Percentage, 59 Shutouts
– Career Postseason Record: 55-59-0, 2.28GAA, .921 Save Percentage, 9 Shutouts
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New York Rangers G Henrik Lundqvist is entering the third season of a seven-year deal which carries an $8.5 million dollar cap hit.
The NYR paid $11 million dollars in total salary in 2014-15, and $10 million in 2015-16. King Henrik’s total salary drops to $9.5 million this upcoming season, and continues to drop the following four years.
He will earn $9 million in 2017-18, $7.5 million in 2018-19, $7 million in 2019-20, and $5.5 million in his final year (2020-21) at which point the Swedish netminder will be 38-years-old.
A Three to Five Year Window?
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Showing no signs of slowing, one might wonder if New York Rangers G Henrik Lundqvist has the longevity to play into his 40s. Even if he can, it’s difficult to imagine him continuing to play at such an elite level.
That could potentially leave Hank and the NYR with roughly a three to five-year window to bring Lord Stanley back to the Big Apple.
Prospects Brady Skjei (D) and Pavel Buchnevich look primed to step up this upcoming season. Include recently signed Jimmy Vesey and new acquisition Mika Zibanejad, the NYR add four high impact players.
Next: Jimmy Vesey Signs With New York Rangers
As it stands, the New York Rangers should a competitive Eastern Conference team in 2016-17.
They’re not quite built for a long Stanley Cup run at this point, but there’s reason for optimism in the future. GM Jeff Gorton looks to be the right man to get this franchise over the hump, and will continue to build through the prospect pool and make moves to improve the club.