Rangers’ Lafreniere Under Pressure Amid Growing Trade Rumors

Alexis Lafreniere, the New York Rangers' highly touted first-overall pick from the 2020 NHL Draft, is facing increasing pressure as trade rumors swirl around him amidst the team's inconsistent performance. The Rangers' less-than-ideal start to the 2025-26 season has amplified the scrutiny on Lafreniere, leading to questions about his future with the team.

After a disappointing 2024-25 season, the Rangers and Lafreniere entered this year with hopes of a fresh start under a new head coach, Mike Sullivan. Sullivan's arrival was expected to potentially unlock a new level in Lafreniere's game. However, through the first few weeks of the season, Lafreniere's performance has been a mixed bag, failing to consistently meet the high expectations placed upon him.

"I think it's been a little bit of a mixed bag," Sullivan said when asked about Lafreniere's play. "I think he's had some games where he's had some strong games. He's one of those talented guys that has the ability to create something out of nothing... It's not like he hasn't had opportunities to score goals. Obviously, we have higher expectations just from a production standpoint".

Despite a seven-year contract signed last year, Lafreniere has yet to consistently perform as a top-line winger. While he had a promising 2023-24 season with 28 goals and 57 points, he regressed in the 2024-25 season. As a result, the pressure is mounting for him to prove his worth and justify his $7.45 million annual cap hit.

The Rangers' current standing, 6th in the Metropolitan Division with a 4-5-2 record in their first 11 games, has intensified the focus on potential roster changes. According to NHL insider David Pagnotta, Lafreniere's name was mentioned in trade discussions during the summer. While there was no progress on a potential deal, the possibility of revisiting a trade remains if the Rangers' struggles continue.

One of the main criticisms leveled against Lafreniere is his inconsistent usage. Despite being a natural left winger, he has often been deployed on the right side, hindering his ability to maximize his offensive potential. Additionally, his limited power-play time has further hampered his production. Despite recording career-high power-play ice time at 1:34 per game last season, Lafreniere ranked just seventh on the team in that category.

While some observers have been critical, Coach Sullivan defended Lafreniere, cautioning against unfair comparisons to "generational talents" simply because of his first-overall draft status. He emphasized the importance of focusing on the process and playing the game the right way, trusting that opportunities will arise.

Lafreniere's statistics through his first six seasons in the NHL are respectable, with 92 goals and 101 assists in 380 games. However, for a player of his pedigree, these numbers are considered underwhelming. He has yet to reach the 60-point mark in a single season, and his inconsistency has been a source of frustration for fans and the organization.

The Rangers' commitment to Lafreniere remains, but this season is crucial for him to establish himself as a core member of the team. If he fails to elevate his game and consistently contribute at a high level, the trade rumors will likely intensify, potentially leading to his departure from New York.