Alexis Lafrenière has been on the scoresheet in six of his last eight games, collecting seven points (two goals, five assists). In his fourth season in the NHL, Lafrenière has gained confidence and is now becoming a key player for the Rangers.
In the first class of the 2020 draft, his recipe for success was not described to explain his progress. But if you read between the lines, there are a few things that stand out.
As for superstitions, there is a red mustache that he has proudly worn since November. Vincent Trocheck, his center player, also has the mustachioed look.
In hockey there are also more compelling reasons with the arrival of a new head coach, Peter Laviolette, and the greater stability on the right wing of Trocheck and Artemi Panarin.
“It’s fun to play with the same guys,” Lafrenière admitted after leaving a morning practice session on the ice at the Bell Center. A chemistry can develop with them. They are special players. Panarin plays like few players in the NHL. If you can play with him for a longer period of time, you can understand him better and know what he expects from his teammates.”
A profitable change
In his first three seasons in New York, Lafrenière played one season under David Quinn and the following two for Gerard Gallant. Without saying he was unhappy under previous regimes, he had a smile on his face when talking about Laviolette.
“I like the way he leads the team,” he replied. The system is really good. It gives the players confidence. He's a coach who is close to his players and that's cool for us. He brought a good dynamic to the team. “That’s one of the reasons why we’re one of the good teams in the league.”
“He called me this summer, I think he called all the guys to introduce himself. We had a few conversations at camp. He really helped me. Things are going well so far. He helps me 100%. He gives everyone confidence. You see, he is a good coach with experience.”
A better chair
Before the game at the Bell Center, Lafrenière had already collected 23 points (10 goals, 13 assists) in 37 games. He also transitioned well from left wing to right wing, securing a permanent spot in one of the team's two best offensive lines.
To replicate the look on Martin St-Louis' face, Lafrenière now enjoys a better chair with the Rangers this season.
Getty Images via AFP
“I don’t think he’s playing much differently than he did last year, mostly because of the opportunity he was given,” Trocheck said. He gets better chances this year than last year. I always really liked his style of play, including last year. I always wanted to play with him, I often asked to be paired with him. I particularly like his level of competition. He obviously has a lot of talent, which is why he was selected first overall, but he struggles on the ice. It’s a combination that’s pretty rare, a player with so much talent and determination.”
“He’s an important player for us,” Laviolette added. His trio is consistent. He generates multiple chances and attacks. He developed a great bond with Panarin. First he played with Chytil, now it’s Trocheck.”
Laviolette briefly returned to his summer conversation with his young 22-year-old winger.
“I told him to come to camp and get ready. I wanted him to arrive in good physical condition. He did that. He worked hard during camp. There was a period of adjustment where he found himself on the right wing. But it didn't last long. He found his rhythm and chemistry with his teammates. Very positive for him. I wanted to go home with a clean sheet for all my players, not just him. The past no longer matters, we look to the future.”