When the New York Rangers rebuild was set into motion this winter, franchise goalie Henrik Lundqvist was given an out by the organization. He chose to stay with the team he loves, in the city he loves.
That could not have been an easy decision, given the season that was happening and the team’s outlook for the near future. However, he still played 63 games (61 starts), right around where he’s averaged the last few seasons (barring his injury in 2014-15).
As Lundqvist depressingly ages, his backup will be that much more important to the Rangers, at least until Igor Shestyorkin is ready for the show.