Zuccarello: Rangers' treatment of Lundqvist is 'disrespectful'

Mats Zuccarello doesn't appreciate the way his former team, the New York Rangers, have treated franchise legend Henrik Lundqvist.

"It's disrespectful," Zuccarello said, according to Roy Kvatningen of VG, as translated by Danny Abriano of SNY. "He is getting older, yes, and they have another good keeper, but then they could let him play the games (Igor) Shesterkin doesn't play."

Lundqvist saw a drastic dip in his playing time this season after rookie phenom Igor Shesterkin was promoted from the AHL. Fellow youngster Alexandar Georgiev played the majority of games Shesterkin missed. Lundqvist started just four of a possible 29 contests after Shesterkin was recalled on Jan. 6.

"It is absolutely haunting that he is treated that way," Zuccarello said. "Did anyone ever think that this was going to happen Henrik Lundqvist? None."

With three goaltenders on board, the Rangers have some decisions to make this summer. Shesterkin and Georgiev are both 24 years old, but Lundqvist, 38, is under contract for one more season with a hefty $8.5-million cap hit. It's possible he could be bought out, especially considering the club is up against the cap.

Zuccarello sees some similarities to how the Rangers treated him - New York dealt the winger to the Dallas Stars at the 2018 trade deadline. Lundqvist got choked up when discussing the move afterward.

"I never thought it would happen to me, either. In my eyes, I was about to end (my career with the Rangers). I think Hank would, too," said Zuccarello. "Everything was going to be fine and great, but then the management decided (something else), and then you are not worth a damn."

Lundqvist, who sits sixth on the all-time wins list, owns a .905 save percentage and a 3.16 goals-against average in 30 games this season.