The New York Rangers are in trouble if they cannot protect their top goalie in net Igor Shesterkin.

The Rangers lost to the New Jersey Devils 5-1 in Madison Square Garden, as Shesterkin saved 23 of 28 shots.

Not only that, the Rangers were “goalied” by Jacob Markstrom who at the moment makes $4.125 Million AAV.

It’s hard to say how much Shesterkin should be making, while the goalie has collapsed, and failed to be the reliable workhorse he was before.

If he was unable to shut the door on a divisional rival, like the New Jersey Devils it’s not looking good for his contract negotiations.

Stan Fischler makes an interesting comment on the situation:

The fella, who believes he should be the NHL’s highest-paid player, was outplayed by a ton at the other end. Markstrom made 38 saves. Shesterkin made 23 saves, gave up five goals and skipped the media post-game.

Albeit, this wasn’t the only game the Rangers and Shesterkin have failed to perform to the best of their abilities. The Rangers did pepper Jacob Markstrom with 39 shots but they were unable to crack him for more than a goal last night.

Shesterkin however leaked like a sieve last night, as it seems the slump is across the roster this time including Shesty.

“They were disengaged from the start against the Devils,” explained one media type who preferred anonymity. “Shesterkin is 2-7 in his last nine. Seems like he’s the one who should be on the trading block. Of course he was nowhere to be found post-game.”

The Rangers gave up the first goal, and tragedy usually follows as the Laviolette-led squad typically loses when that occurs.

“I hate the first goal!” was The Man’s pithy pronouncement.

Fischler’s colorful commentary adds to the sad, but hilarity of the situation as the Rangers defensive core was unable to stop the Keefe-led Devils.

Just to give the majestic mentor more conniptions, Shesty – the sometimes stopper – gave up a second goal faster than you can say, “Yank The Sieve.”

After last night, can we say earnestly that Shesterkin is worth $12-$14 Million AAV a year, especially when they can’t defeat a legitimate rival like the New Jersey Devils?

Auspices don’t look well for the Blueshirts, especially when it comes to the next games against the Penguins, Kraken, Blackhawks, and Sabres.