Alexis Lafreniere’s improvement a big part of organizational success in 2023-2024

Alexis Lafreniere’s improvement and recent performance against the Philadelphia Flyers on March 26th, where he scored his 21st and 22nd goals, not only secured a thrilling overtime victory for the Rangers but also marked a significant milestone in his career. Lafreniere set new career highs in goals and points, with more to come in the remaining games.

This breakthrough has brought a sense of relief to many in the Rangers’ community who had begun to doubt the potential of the 2020 first-overall pick, fearing he might be on the verge of leaving due to his lackluster production and effort.

Since joining the Rangers, Lafreniere has faced challenges fitting in, especially under the guidance of two different coaches, David Quinn and Gerard Gallant. There were concerns among fans and within the organization that without a substantial improvement in his performance, Lafreniere might face a fate similar to that of Alexandre Daigle, the former first-round pick who failed to live up to expectations during his career in the NHL, despite being hailed as a top talent.

While Lafreniere exhibited flashes of brilliance early on, reminiscent of Daigle, he struggled to maintain consistency, unlike his stellar junior career where he amassed impressive statistics. However, this season has seen a remarkable transformation in Lafreniere’s game, as he has emerged as a key player for the Rangers, transitioning from a potential fringe player to a crucial member of the top-six forward lineup.

The crucial difference between Lafreniere and Daigle lies in the support and guidance they received from their respective teams. Daigle’s career suffered due to a lack of support and mentorship from the Ottawa Senators during their early years as an expansion team, as highlighted in a recently released documentary about the 1993 first-round pick for Ottawa. In contrast, the Rangers have made significant efforts to invest in Lafreniere’s development, restructuring their coaching staff and bringing in experienced personnel to nurture his talents.

Under the new coaching regime led by Peter Laviolette, supported by seasoned professionals like Michael Peca and Phil Housley, Lafreniere has thrived, forming dynamic partnerships with teammates like Vincent Trocheck and Artemi Panarin. The Rangers’ commitment to nurturing their young talent has paid dividends, as Lafreniere continues to demonstrate his potential on the ice, showcasing the results of the organization’s investment in his development.