Alexis Lafreniere ready to face childhood idol Sidney Crosby
The Rangers #1 overall draft pick, Alexis Lafreniere has drawn comparisons, fair or unfair to Sidney Crosby. Not so much for their playing style but because both were stars in the QMJHL for Rimouski Oceanic.
As a 17 year-old, Lafreniere had the opportunity to meet Crosby. “I don’t know what I’ll say to him, I guess I’ll just go with the flow,” Lafreniere said before Rimouski was set to retire Crosby’s jersey. “It’s going to be special. He’s such an idol for me. It’s going to be a big day and a big moment for the organization.”
Now a new day has arrived.
Lafreniere to face-off against Crosby
Tonight, Lafreniere will line up at some point opposite Crosby. It will be a special moment for the rookie who is looking forward to the challenge.
“Obviously one of my idols growing, for sure it is really special,” Alexis told the media today. “I’m really excited for this game and will try to enjoy it and play as well as I can.”
When it comes to the pressures Lafreniere is facing, Sidney Crosby can relate. Yesterday, he spoke about him and said, “He’s a great player, he generates offense in a lot of different ways.”
“Like any young player, I think with every game there are so many new things – new buildings, new opponents and that sort of thing – so I’m sure there’s a lot on his mind,” Crosby explained. “But I think that being someone who can relate to what he’s going through, I think he’s just got to continue doing what he’s doing.”
Tonight, Alexis Lafreniere will compete against his boyhood idol. Just like Sidney Crosby did when he faced off against Teemu Selanne, whom he idolized.
It will be the first of 8 matchups and should prove if Alexis will be star struck or ready to shine his own light.
Latest NHL Rumors
More About:NYR Features Blueshirts GameDay