As all eyes have been on the New York Rangers’ contract negotiations with superstar goaltender Igor Shesterkin, it appears general manager Chris Drury has been quietly working on another major deal. According to reports, the Rangers are in active negotiations with breakout star and former first-overall pick Alexis Lafreniere on a long-term contract extension that could reshape the team’s future.
NHL insider Frank Seravalli of *Daily Faceoff* revealed that talks between the Rangers and Lafreniere have been ongoing since the summer. He mentioned that while discussions briefly paused to focus on Shesterkin’s contract, the negotiations are now back in full swing, with an eight-year deal worth approximately $8 million per year potentially on the table.
Lafreniere’s Contract Extension in the Works
Seravalli broke down the details on Sports on Prime Canada, noting the progress made over the past few months:
“The New York Rangers have been doing a lot of work on Alexis Lafreniere and that file. I’m told they made significant progress over the summer. Talks are ongoing. This is a big moment for New York with Lafreniere as they try to put the future cap picture together for this team.”
Sources close to the negotiations have indicated that Lafreniere could be looking at a deal with an annual average value (AAV) upwards of $8 million. While other contract structures are reportedly being discussed, one thing is certain: if Lafreniere re-signs with the Rangers, his AAV will not drop below $7 million, regardless of the term.
Lafreniere’s Rising Star
At just 23 years old, Lafreniere is entering his prime, and the Rangers know it. The 2020 first-overall pick is coming off a breakout season, posting career highs in goals (28), assists (29), and total points (57). He was instrumental in New York’s playoff run, tallying 14 points in 16 games while showcasing the offensive skill set that has made him one of the team’s core players.
Lafreniere’s production last season, coupled with his continued growth, makes him a prime candidate for a long-term investment. He’s already shown flashes of stardom alongside linemates Artemi Panarin and Vincent Trocheck and has started this season in style, contributing two points, including a highlight-reel goal, in the Rangers’ dominant opening night win.
Why the Rangers Need to Act Fast
While an $8 million AAV might raise eyebrows, Lafreniere’s trajectory suggests that number could be a bargain if his upward trend continues. Waiting to lock him in could result in the price tag climbing higher, especially if he becomes a point-per-game player this season.
Lafreniere is already establishing himself as one of the Rangers’ foundational pieces, and general manager Chris Drury faces a pivotal decision in getting this deal across the finish line. Securing Lafreniere long-term would cement New York’s future, positioning the Rangers to contend for Stanley Cups for years to come.
With Shesterkin’s contract likely settled soon, all focus will shift to Lafreniere. The Rangers would be wise to finalize the extension before Lafreniere’s value skyrockets further.
