Alexis Lafrenière Inks Seven-Year Deal with NY Rangers in Major Extension
The New York Rangers and Alexis Lafrenière have just agreed on a significant seven-year contract extension, valued at $52.15 million. This contract not only provides long-term security for the promising 23-year-old forward but also brings stability to the Rangers' financial planning, with an average annual value (AAV) of $7.45 million. It locks Lafrenière into the team until the end of his age-30 season, which means he’ll have another shot at a lucrative free agency opportunity later in his career. Part of the deal includes an eight-team no-trade clause beginning in the third year, which gives Lafrenière some control over his future if trade considerations ever arise.
This extension is seen as both a smart and cost-effective move for the Rangers. Lafrenière’s contract compares favorably with other recent first-overall picks, like New Jersey’s Jack Hughes and Montreal’s Juraj Slafkovsky, who received higher annual salaries. Securing Lafrenière’s talent while he’s on an upward trajectory gives the Rangers a critical piece of their roster at a reasonable price. For Rangers' team president Chris Drury, this contract also brings some predictability to their cap situation, as he navigates other major deals, including those for star goaltender Igor Shesterkin and defenseman K’Andre Miller. These pending contracts, along with an expected salary cap increase, will dictate much of the team’s financial landscape for the foreseeable future.
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Lafrenière’s growth into his role has been a journey since his selection as the No. 1 pick in the 2020 NHL Draft. After initial years of adjustment, last season he delivered a breakout performance with a career-high 57 points, consisting of 28 goals and 29 assists. His regular-season success translated into playoff contributions, where he tied for the team lead with eight goals in 16 games, cementing his role as a crucial offensive player. Playing alongside Vincent Trocheck and Artemi Panarin, Lafrenière has thrived, with his skating and playmaking skills reaching new levels, much to the delight of Rangers fans.
Kicking off the current season, Lafrenière has sustained this momentum, already contributing four goals and three assists, totaling seven points and positioning himself as one of the Rangers' top scorers. Though he currently plays on the second power-play unit, his even-strength production has been impressive. Coach Peter Laviolette has praised Lafrenière’s growing confidence, noting that he’s been a standout in both his skill level and his impact on the ice.
This seven-year contract cements Lafrenière as a core player for the Rangers, who are betting on his potential to drive the team’s success. By securing him now, the Rangers have set the stage for a promising chapter in their franchise history, with Lafrenière emerging as a key contributor both in regular season play and critical playoff moments.
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