Where has this version of Alexis Lafreniere been hiding? That’s the question on every New York Rangers fan’s mind as they witness the young forward finally living up to his No. 1 overall pick potential from the 2020 NHL Draft.
Lafreniere’s career highs of 28 goals and 57 points, set in the 2023-24 season, seemed like distant memories until recently. Despite a promising start to the 2024-25 season, his performance dipped, mirroring the Rangers' struggles as they slipped out of playoff contention.
Fast forward to this season, and it’s a different story. The Rangers might be on the brink of missing the playoffs for the second consecutive year, but Lafreniere is on an absolute tear. Alongside linemates Mika Zibanejad and Gabe Perreault, he’s been instrumental in the Rangers’ three-game winning streak and their impressive 5-1-2 run since the Olympic break.
The departure of Artemi Panarin to the Los Angeles Kings on February 4 opened the door for Lafreniere to step up, and he hasn’t looked back. Now playing left wing with Zibanejad and Perreault, he’s thriving, scoring his seventh goal in eight games and adding an assist in a commanding 6-3 victory over the Winnipeg Jets.
This is the consistent production the Rangers have been waiting for from Lafreniere, now in his sixth NHL season. Goaltender Igor Shesterkin, riding his own 4-0-2 streak, expressed his appreciation for the scoring support, highlighting the team’s improved gameplay.
Lafreniere is currently on the hottest streak of his career, with five of his 19 goals coming during a three-game scoring spree. He’s also recorded three consecutive multi-point games, tallying 10 points in his last five outings. His recent performance includes a second NHL hat trick in a 4-0 win over the Calgary Flames, and since March 2, he’s tied for the league lead in goals and points.
Without Panarin, who had been sitting out for roster management, Lafreniere has embraced his role as a top-line player. The freedom to be “the guy” on his line has allowed him to shine, especially with linemates like Perreault and Zibanejad, whose pass-first mentality complements his scoring prowess. His increased involvement in the top power-play unit has also been a game-changer.
Coach Mike Sullivan praised the team’s net-front presence against the Jets, with Lafreniere’s deflection goal exemplifying the gritty play needed to succeed in the NHL. His assist on Perreault’s game-winner further showcased his impact on the ice.
Lafreniere is finally playing with the confidence that’s been missing in his previous seasons. “Just playing with a little bit more confidence,” he shared after his hat trick. “Skating a little better, hanging onto pucks a little bit more in the neutral zone offensively.”
While the Rangers’ playoff hopes are slim, Lafreniere’s emergence as a star is a promising sign for the future. Heading into the 2026-27 season, his newfound form could be the catalyst for the Rangers’ return to postseason glory.