Bobby Bevilacqua

The first move of the Rangers offseason was a good one.

The Rangers announced via Twitter today that they had agreed to terms on a new contract with backup goaltender Antti Raanta. The terms were not disclosed, but it is rumored that it is a two year deal with a cap hit of $1 million.

#NYR backup goalie Antti Raanta’s new contract is reportedly two years, $1M AAV. Good deal for both player and club.

— Sean Hartnett (@HartnettHockey) May 2, 2016

Raanta, who turns 27 this month, appeared in 25 games for the Rangers in the 2015-16 season, tying a career high. He finished with a record of 11-6-2 with a 2.24 GAA (8^th in the NHL) and a .926 save percentage.

Raanta won each of his first four starts of the season, becoming the first goalie in franchise history to accomplish that feat. He also finished the season on a tear, closing out the year with a 7-1-0 record in his last eight games along with a 2.13 GAA and a .931 save percentage in that span.

Among goalies that have appeared in a minimum of 15 games in each of the last two seasons, Raanta ranks second in the league in GAA (2.10) and fourth in save percentage (.926). He’s also been fantastic on home ice, posting a 19-4-4 record in 31 career home appearances to go with a 1.80 GAA, a .934 save percentage and four shutouts.

This is a really good deal for the Rangers. Raanta played very well for the majority of this season, especially down the stretch. Also, a $1 million cap hit for Raanta for the next two seasons is very affordable, and a good price for what he can bring to the table. The Rangers may need to use him more often and rest Lundqvist down the stretch, especially after a tough outing in the playoffs for him this season.

Good deal for both sides.

Great feeling to come back to @NYRangers thanks to the fans for a great first year and everybody who made NY feel like home! #family 😊😊

— Antti Raanta (@ARaanta31) May 2, 2016