Rangers buy out Lundqvist's contract
Henrik Lundqvist's time with the New York Rangers has ended after 15 years.
New York bought out the final year of his contract Wednesday. The move was first reported Tuesday night.
There are many stars in this league. There are few icons.
— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) September 30, 2020
Number 30, from Åre, Sweden, Henrik Lundqvist: You always have been, and always will be, a Ranger. pic.twitter.com/i5uqUQ9oQz
Lundqvist expressed his gratitude shortly thereafter.
THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING!
— Henrik Lundqvist (@HLundqvist30) September 30, 2020
15 years ago, I played my first game for @NYRangers I came here with high hopes and big dreams but in my wildest imagination, I could never have pictured the amazing ride that lay ahead.. pic.twitter.com/uo0HJMZnCj
Representing this organization has been the biggest source of pride and joy in my life. I’m so grateful for the opportunity, for the friendships and for all the great memories created wearing the red, white and blue.
— Henrik Lundqvist (@HLundqvist30) September 30, 2020
I will always cherish my time as a Ranger.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you! ❤️🤍💙
— Henrik Lundqvist (@HLundqvist30) September 30, 2020
There was one season remaining on his contract at a cap hit of $8.5 million.
The 38-year-old had spent his entire career with the Rangers since the team selected him in the seventh round in 2000. His 887 games played, 459 wins, and 64 shutouts are all franchise records.
Rangers general manager Jeff Gorton said in August that the team's plan is to carry only two goalies on its roster next season. During the 2019-20 campaign, Lundqvist split starts with teammates Alexandar Georgiev and Igor Shesterkin.
Since Lundqvist's rookie season in 2005-06, the Rangers have made the playoffs 11 times. He helped guide the club to the Stanley Cup Final in 2014 and the conference finals on two occasions.
HEADLINES
- Report: Ekblad signs 8-year, $48.8M deal to stay with Panthers
- Red Wings trade Tarasenko to Wild for future considerations
- Islanders sign Romanov to 8-year extension, reportedly worth $50M
- Predicting where the most intriguing NHL UFAs land
- Teams to watch on July 1, draft trends, and other NHL offseason items