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Alexis Lafreniere showing Rangers there’s more to his game as Mike Sullivan’s trust grows

New York Rangers winger Alexis Lafrenière delivered a statement performance in a 5-2 win over the Islanders, capping it with a hat trick that included two goals scored in rapid succession in the third period. The offensive firepower that made him the Rangers’ top pick in 2020 was on full display early, as he converted a Mika Zibanejad assist off the crossbar to give his team an early lead.

But Lafrenière’s growing role in clutch situations has earned the trust of head coach Mike Sullivan, particularly in 5-on-6 scenarios where the Rangers have pulled their goaltender late in games. In two recent victories, Lafrenière has rewarded that confidence, including a penalty draw that led to an empty-net opportunity and a blocked shot that denied Utah’s Dylan Guenther with under a minute remaining.

Through five games, he ranks tied for third in the NHL with four penalty draws, a testament to his defensive development under Sullivan’s guidance. The coach has repeatedly emphasized Lafrenière’s untapped potential, and Tuesday’s performance—where he combined explosive scoring with defensive responsibility—suggested his vision may be paying off sooner than expected.

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