Alexis Lafrenière is still sleeping peacefully. The 2020 draft class leader expects to continue his career with the New York Rangers.
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“Rumors don’t bother me,” the 21-year-old winger said in an interview with the Journal. There are often rumours. I can’t stress about it. I’m still very happy with Rangers.
This is what Lafrenière made between shots at the Hartley-Lowe-Page golf tournament in Lachute to benefit the Argenteuil Community Social Pediatrics Center.
Rodger Brulotte, our trusty spy, handed him his cell phone for a quick chat about his future in Manhattan.
For the past few weeks, the name Lafrenière has been circulating in the noise of the NHL hallways.
On July 1, website journalist Arthur Staple of New York Athletic wrote that Chris Drury was quietly exploring options for a swap for his young left winger. A few days later, Staple released information that a source at Rangers told him that ultimately wasn’t the case.
Lafrenière remains calm in the face of this reality. He always presents himself in the “blue shirt” uniform.
“Yes, I spoke to Chris (Drury), our general manager, he said. I know the negotiations are going well. I remain confident. I maintain an everyday mentality.”
Negotiate a future contract
After three seasons in Manhattan, Lafrenière must now sign a new contract at the team’s next camp. He closed his rookie deal. In theory, the left winger should be given a short-term contract (bridging contract) as he didn’t have the numbers to break the bank.
“I am confident that we will find an agreement,” he replied without going into details. I don’t control that part too much. We will see.”
In his third season with Rangers, the former Rimouski Océanic made modest progress with 39 points (16 goals, 23 assists) and a +10 tally in 81 games. However, in seven games against the New Jersey Devils in the first round, he failed to put his name on the scoring charts.
Lafrenière had 31 points (19 goals, 12 assists) in 79 games in the 2021–22 season and 21 points (12 goals, 9 assists) in 56 games in his rookie season.
“I want to have my best season next year,” he replied. I have confidence in my abilities and my abilities.”
Among the many changes within the team, Drury awarded former Canadian Alex Belzile a two-year deal.
Belzile, who wore the ‘C’ for captain of the Laval Rocket, will make a huge impact on his young teammate if he lands a job with Rangers.
A change of air
After a season with David Quinn and two more with Gerard Gallant, Lafrenière will now join Peter Laviolette with a third head coach.
Getty Images via AFP
“Yes, I think it will be good for me,” he said. I don’t know Peter personally yet, but I hear good things about him. I have a feeling that he will be a good coach for us. We are very happy to start the new season with him.”
In the Manhattan jungle, the Rangers will cling to hopes of winning back the Stanley Cup for the first time since 1994.
“We will continue to have a good team in New York,” he predicted. We will work hard to achieve the main goal, which is to reach the Stanley Cup Finals.”