Even though Alexis Lafrenière was selected with the very first pick of the 2020 draft, it took him a while to get going in the NHL.
His first three seasons were ordinary offensively…
The Quebecer is eligible to sign a contract extension in New York, but the idea doesn’t interest him.
It makes sense… even if it’s a bit risky:
It should be a busy few weeks for the #NYR, but one item I’m not expecting them to check off the list is an extension for Alexis Lafrenière.
He’s eligible for a new deal as of 7/1, but here’s why I’m hearing No. 13 is likely to wait until next summerhttps://t.co/WNUPmwMIpj
– Vince Z. Mercogliano (@vzmercogliano) June 24, 2024
I say it’s risky because in the NHL (as in all other sports), players are not immune to injury.
Obviously, no one wants that to happen in Laffy’s case, but it’s a danger that exists nonetheless.
On the other side of the coin, you have to understand his point of view, because he’s been on the rise for four years now.
- 21 points in 56 games (20-21)
- 31 points in 79 games (21-22)
- 39 points in 81 games (22-23)
- 57 points in 82 games (23-24)
We’re talking about a first-round pick, after all, and those players have to find a way to be productive on the ice.
But right now, he knows he belongs, and the fact that he’s willing to wait before signing his next contract shows that he’s confident in his abilities at the moment.
It’s worth noting that Lafrenière has just one season left on his contract, which pays him $2.325 million annually.
Overtime
– C’est fouil pareil!
Eleven years ago tonight. pic.twitter.com/AUrE3Ixjp7
– Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) June 24, 2024
– Is this the one?
Corey Perry since leaving Anaheim:
2020 – loss in Finals with Dallas
2021 – loss in Finals with Montreal
2022 – loss in Finals with Tampa
2023 – lost to TORONTO in round 1
2024 –Tonight, he becomes either a story of loss or perseverance. Either way, it’s an all-timer. pic.twitter.com/zAzByLBdD2
– Big Head Hockey (@BigHeadHcky) June 24, 2024