The New York Rangers have reportedly finalized a deal with Alexis Lafreniere, one of their promising young stars, which could turn out to be a fantastic move for both sides. According to Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet, Lafreniere’s new contract is set for seven years at a total value of $52.1 million, averaging a $7.45 million salary cap hit per season. This contract will commence next season and continue through the 2031-32 season.
Drafted as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft, Lafreniere was a core part of the Rangers’ rebuilding efforts. After struggling to find consistency and a stable role under former coach Gerard Gallant, he started to shine during the 2023-24 season. Lafreniere now appears poised to reach the star potential the Rangers envisioned when they selected him at the top of the draft.
Last season, Lafreniere achieved career-best stats, scoring 28 goals and 57 points during the regular season, followed by a standout performance in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. He has continued that momentum into this season, recording four goals and three assists in the first seven games.
This contract is particularly advantageous for the Rangers as a $7.45 million cap hit ranks outside the top 85 salaries in the league and will likely fall further as new contracts are signed. If Lafreniere keeps improving as expected, he could easily exceed this value in just a year or two. Additionally, this deal secures his prime playing years for the Rangers, with the potential for him to reach 35-40 goals and 90-plus points per season.
For Lafreniere, this deal also has benefits. When it ends, he’ll be 30 years old, allowing him to enter unrestricted free agency with the chance for another significant contract while still performing at a high level.
With Lafreniere’s contract settled, the Rangers’ next priority will be securing a long-term deal for starting goalie Igor Shesterkin. As their best player and soon-to-be unrestricted free agent, Shesterkin is expected to redefine the goalie market. The question remains whether the Rangers are ready to meet that price.