The New York Rangers have been in the spotlight recently as they work on an extension for superstar goaltender Igor Shesterkin. Despite some conflicting reports making negotiations intriguing, a deal has yet to be finalized. There were indications that Shesterkin might aim to become the highest-paid goaltender in NHL history, and it has been reported that he turned down an offer that would have made that possible.
According to Kevin Weekes, Shesterkin declined a significant eight-year extension worth $88 million, avNew York Rangerseraging $11 million per year. While this situation unfolds, another player in need of an extension is Alexis Lafreniere, who is approaching restricted free agency (RFA) in the final year of his two-year contract. With a cap hit of $2.325 million, he is expected to see an increased role and salary. His offensive skills have been steadily improving, and he has maintained a strong defensive game, making a long-term deal appealing for both parties. Pundit Frank Seravalli recently suggested a potential new contract for Lafreniere, proposing an eight-year extension at $8 million per season.
The Rangers dominated the Penguins in their first game of the 2024-25 regular season, winning 6-0, with Lafreniere contributing a goal and an assist. Last season, he recorded 28 goals and 29 assists for a total of 57 points over 82 games, averaging 0.69 points per game. He achieved career highs in all three offensive categories and appears poised to improve his stats again. Given his trajectory, Lafreniere seems on track to become a full-time top-six forward for the Rangers, and he may secure a lucrative contract before the team eventually enters a rebuild.
Rangers Could Build Around Lafreniere as Rebuild Nears
As the Rangers’ core ages, they likely have limited chances left before entering a rebuild or retool. At just 23 years old, Lafreniere is a player the Rangers will want to retain throughout this transition. Although their prospect pool isn’t particularly deep, securing a long-term deal for Lafreniere could be beneficial as they build their future around him, along with players like Kaapo Kakko, Will Cuylle, Adam Emstrom, Matt Rempe, and Braden Schneider, among others.
After a summer filled with rumors about captain Jacob Trouba and a possible trade, it’s clear to fans that the Rangers have a limited Stanley Cup window with their current core. Players like Artemi Panarin, Mika Zibanejad, Chris Kreider, and Trouba are aging and could start to see declines in their performance at any time. Trouba’s defensive play notably worsened last season, and his struggles against the Penguins suggest this trend may continue.
Ultimately, Lafreniere is on track to becoming a superstar in the NHL, so the Rangers should prioritize locking him up sooner rather than later, especially if the team begins to decline and fall out of contention. The uncertainty surrounding Shesterkin, along with the aging veterans, is a concerning combination for fans. If they can’t make significant progress this season, major changes could be on the horizon in New York.
As the 2024-25 season progresses, be sure to follow The Hockey Writers for the latest news from around the NHL and the hockey world.
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