Alexis Lafrenière has shown significant improvement in his style of play under the guidance of Mike Sullivan. Recently, he has emerged as a key player for the New York Rangers. This change is surprising, given that Lafrenière has typically been recognized for his offensive talent rather than his physical game.
Evolution of Lafrenière’s Game
This season, Lafrenière has developed a new approach to his play. At 24 years old, he is gaining confidence in holding onto the puck to create more offensive opportunities. This marks a notable shift from the start of the 2025-26 campaign when he faced challenges in this area.
Increased Physicality
One of the biggest changes fans have noticed is Lafrenière’s willingness to engage physically. He has become more adept at crashing the net and screening goalies, adding a vital dimension to his gameplay. Coach Mike Sullivan highlighted this transformation, stating:
- Lafrenière is holding onto pucks effectively.
- He is challenging defenders in key areas.
- His play involves driving wide and pushing pucks deep into the offensive zone.
Sullivan expressed his satisfaction with Lafrenière’s recent performance, noting that he has become a more challenging player for opponents to defend. This new mentality has opened up opportunities for both Lafrenière and his teammates.
Role on the Power-Play Unit
In recognition of his improved performance, Lafrenière has been assigned a net-front position on the Rangers’ first power-play unit. This reflects both his evolving skill set and his increased engagement in games, which had previously drawn criticism.
Challenges and Development
While Lafrenière’s offensive abilities are clear, his two-way game has been a focal point of conversation. His progress in being more aggressive and involved in “dirty” areas of the ice is a monumental step forward in his development as a player. Recent games indicate that Lafrenière is beginning to play with the right mindset, a positive sign for his future contributions to the team.
As Lafrenière continues to evolve under Sullivan’s leadership, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how his game will further develop throughout the season.
