New York Rangers sign backup goalie Jaroslav Halak for 1-year

Anthony Scultore Updated: Jul 13, 2022

Mar 23, 2022; Denver, Colorado, USA; Vancouver Canucks goaltender Jaroslav Halak (41) sprays water on his blocker before the second period against the Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

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The New York Rangers have signed Jaroslav Halak as their new backup to Vezina winner Igor Shesterkin.

According to Frank Seravalli, it is a one-year deal with a very affordable $1.55 million AAV.

Hearing #NYR and Jaroslav Halak have agreed to terms on 1 year x $1.55 million deal.
— Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) July 13, 2022

New York Rangers ink Jaroslav Halak

jaroslav halak new york rangers — Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

Halak, 37, posted a 4-7-2 record in a limited role with the Vancouver Canucks last season. The key stats were his .903 SV% and 2.94 GAA in limited action behind Thatcher Demko.

For his career, Halak has appeared in 556 games. He boasts a record of 285-180-64 with 52 shutouts. The veteran goalie is also a battler and has a career .916 SV% and a 2.49 GAA,

Halak also knows what life is like playing in the Eastern Conference and has gone to war with the Rangers over the years as a member of the Islanders and Bruins. Matter of fact, Halak is 24-9-1 for his career against the Rangers. By far the most wins against any team he’s faced (two teams tied at 15).

Backing up an elite starter is nothing new to him. The Canucks’ Demko is a workhorse leaving Halak with only making 17 appearances. He would certainly play more in New York, but any extended time as a starter would not be optimal for the Rangers.

Also, Frank Vatrano is officially done with the Rangers as he signs with the Anaheim Ducks.

https://twitter.com/FriedgeHNIC/status/1547265910242689027?s=20&t=AMssJqTM9PVSBe2rOp2xzw

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