Left on the catwalk during the New York Rangers’ last game in 2022, Alexis Lafrenière hasn’t missed one since.
The very first choice in the NHL draft in 2020, the Quebecer has collected three points in his last two games and obviously he no longer intends to see his name removed from the training by his head coach Gerard Gallant.
“He’s been good. The last games have been his best. As I often mention, I have no problem with him. Sometimes these 21-year-olds need a kick in the ass. I like him as an individual and he’s taken his game up a notch lately,” Gallant said, a bit irritated by the perception that he doesn’t like his young winger.
“He will become a good hockey player, but you have to understand that sometimes it can take a little longer for some people to hatch,” added the Rangers head coach.
“Unlike a team like the New Jersey Devils, our young players play on the second wave on the power play because of the presence of our veterans. So they get less ice time. My goal is to win every night. I’m not going to leave Artemi Panarin, Chris Kreider or Mika Zibanejad on the bench, ”said Gallant frankly.
Alexis Lafrenière is currently playing his third season in the NHL. He averages just over 15 minutes on the ice per game. He has scored six goals and 21 points in 46 games so far this season.