Knowing that the end is approaching for Henrik Lundqvist, I put up a tweet last night that sums up my thoughts on what he’s meant to the Rangers.

https://twitter.com/Kovy274Hart/status/1228118872831778816?s=20

It’s easy to take for granted how great he once was. Henrik has been a special athlete in this city who became a symbol of what we want all our players to reach. All the great moments should never be forgotten. Number 30 was king of the city while other teams were mere afterthoughts. He’s as competitive a person as I’ve seen. That’s why his regression has been hard. Not every fan is handling the reality well.

February 24 is coming soon. Even if he stays due to the NMC, it’s knowing that the situation won’t improve. Igor Shesterkin is the clear cut number one goalie. Alex Georgiev may or may not stay. That depends on what the organization decides is best. Does Lundqvist want to end his career this way? Or is there a chance he will reconsider. A buyout is possible which would again take up dead cap space for two more years.

While we don’t know what the future holds, the all-time franchise leader in wins (459) and shutouts (64) along with games played (885) will one day have his jersey retired. He’ll join goalies Eddie Giacomin and Mike Richter. Two of the best in Rangers history. Only Richter has a Cup. The other two came close, but weren’t as lucky.

In the coming days and possibly offseason, there will be more on Lundqvist. A gem of a seventh round pick taken 205th in the 2000 NHL Draft that made good.