Everyone can breathe a sigh of relief. Henrik Lundqvist will be a New York Ranger for the next 6 years at approximately $6.875 per annum. Glen Sather finally locked up the Swede and not a moment too soon. As Henrik’s GAA has gone up and his save percentage down, so too has his asking price. Had Henrik been able to maintain his early fall record throughout this season, I have no doubt that Henke would have easily commanded $8 million per season.

Actually, based on his play of late, Henrik has done well for himself with his newly inked contract. This contract is a reflection of his past play and the fact that Henrik was a Vezina finalist in his first two seasons in the NHL. He carried this team to the playoffs for two consecutive years post-lockout. Had Henrik and Glen Sather waited any longer, Henrik’s play this season may not have warranted such a high dollar amount. 

Six years seems to be a fair and manageable length. Perhaps the un-DiPietro-like length is due to the up and down season Henrik has had so far. Let’s face it, this is a business decision and Sather is a crafty negotiator. Unlike Charles Wang and Garth Snow, Sather ain’t givin’ away the store. 

So, lady Ranger fan’s may rest easy tonight. Our matinee-idol goaltender will be here for the next six years to make you swoon.  Don’t get me wrong. I love Henrik. He is a very sweet guy and is always attentive and cordial to the fans, win or lose. I just hope Henrik remembers that he is only as good as his last game. New York Ranger fans can turn on a player who is underperforming in a heartbeat.

Lastly, now that Henrik is a multi-millionaire, I hope he doesn’t let it go to his head. I hate to bring up Pelle Lindbergh but he was a classic example of fame and wealth having a deleterious effect on an NHL goaltender. Henrik shows all the promise Pelle did. Almost 25 years later and I will never forget the tragic loss. Let’s hope Henrik stays a pillar of this team and has the success his fellow Swede never got to see.