The New York Rangers have finalized a much-anticipated contract with young star Alexis Lafrenière, solidifying their roster for the future.
After several days of speculation and reports suggesting that the two sides were nearing an agreement, the Rangers secured Lafrenière at an average annual value (AAV) of $7.45 million—significantly lower than the initial expectations of around $8 million.
This contract is a big win for the franchise, particularly as Lafrenière is off to a strong start this season, notching 4 goals and 3 assists for a total of 7 points in just a handful of games.
Last season marked a breakout year for Lafrenière, the first overall pick in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft. He registered career highs with 57 points and 26 goals, proving his worth as a key player for the Rangers.
His performance in the playoffs further established him as an essential contributor, where he scored 8 goals and provided 6 assists in 16 games. This upward trajectory has made his new contract even more promising for the Rangers, who see him as a cornerstone of their future.
Lafrenière recently showcased his talent again by scoring his fourth goal of the season against the Florida Panthers. The play involved a clever setup where he assisted Adam Fox in a board battle, allowing Lafrenière to net a goal against the reigning Stanley Cup champions, Sergei Bobrovsky.
With goals already scored against notable teams like Detroit, Toronto, and Pittsburgh, he is demonstrating his ability to rise to the occasion.
This new 7-year contract will carry Lafrenière into his age-30 season, positioning him well for another lucrative payday later in his career.
The Rangers have locked in one of their brightest young talents at a competitive rate, especially when compared to peers like Tim Stützle and Juraj Slafkovský, who have contracts exceeding $8 million AAV. With Lafrenière secured, the Rangers can now turn their attention to the contract situation of another key player, Igor Shesterkin, as they continue to build a strong roster for years to come.
