It wasn’t long ago when many people were writing off the former 2020 first overall pick. And although he is likely to never reach the franchise level type superstar that many thought he would become, he has fit in very nicely in his first season playing full time in the New York Rangers top six, and he has been a large part of the teams success so far.
So far this season, in 68 games, Lafreniere has recorded 19 goals (ties career high), 23 assists, and 42 points (new career high). With there being 14 games remaining, the former first overall pick will easily surpass new career highs and might even get to 50 points for the first time, which is nothing to sneeze at.
What’s been most impressive, is how many of those points have came at even strength. In fact, 37 of his 42 points have come at even strength. He ranks fourth on the Rangers in that category and just one point behind Chris Kreider’s 38 for third. His 13 even strength goals rank higher than Jesper Bratt’s 12, Nick Suzuki’s 12, Tim Stutzle’s 11, and Matthew Barzal’s 11. In fact, his 13 ranks the same as the former Hart winner, future Hall of Famer and franchise superstar Leon Draisaitl. Yes, these players all have more points than him, but they are all stars who play on their respective teams top power play units.
Many fans have been frustrated due to the fact that he has not recorded time on the teams top power play unit. Mika Zibanejad has not lived up to his standards so far this season (although he appears to be slowly getting back on track), and fans wondered if Lafreniere should be given a crack on that top unit, especially since it has been pretty mediocre since the start of the new year.
If he got this power play time, he would definitely have surpassed 50 points, and would certainly be within reach of 60, or even 65. But that is likely a question to be answered during next season and beyond, with there being no signs from Peter Laviolette of a potential change to the top power play unit.
This season has definitely been a step in the right direction for Lafreniere. He looks to be on the upward trajectory. We’ve seen players in the past come into the league and not hit their full strides until their mid 20’s. Going into the NHL is a huge leap, especially for an 18 year old kid who was given bottom 6 minutes for 3+ years and little to no power play time. This season, however, Lafreniere seems to be improving and hopefully it is a great sign for both him and the Rangers for years to come.
BS Reports 
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