At the crux of Alexis Lafrenière’s impactful play since the end of last season is his defensive metrics.
The 2020 No. 1 overall pick has shown an improved defensive consciousness that has influenced his general attention to detail and elevated his game in all three zones. Mike Sullivan has preached the Rangers’ need to turn defense into offense, but it’s possible that keeping Lafrenière with the team’s top two-way skater is the best decision the veteran head coach could make for the 25-year-old wing.
After skating next to Mika Zibanejad in the final 22 games and 47 times overall last season, Lafrenière has been on the Blueshirts top line alongside the Swedish center in all but three games so far this season.
Leading the Rangers with nine goals entering Tuesday’s game against the Blues, Lafrenière has stepped up in his expanded role.
