Rangers Roundup: Alexis Lafrenière finding new level, Bobby Trivigno rumors, and more
The New York Rangers have to be really pleased with the development of sophomore Alexis Lafrenière this season.
Through 64 games, the first overall pick in the 2020 NHL draft has recorded 15 goals and 25 points for .39 points per game while averaging 13:58 TOI.
In contrast, the 2019 first overall pick, Jack Hughes of the New Jersey Devils recorded 11 goals and 31 points in 56 games of his sophomore season. That was good for .55 points per game but he did it with top PP time and averaging 19:04 TOI.
Alexis Lafrenière riding 6 game point streak
Lafrenière, 20, is riding the longest point streak of his career at 6 games with 2 goals and 4 assists over that span.
In his last two games since moving back to left wing, albeit on the third line, the kid from Eustache, Quebec has 2 goals and 1 assist.
“It was good to come back to my natural side,” Lafrenière said via the team’s YouTube channel. “I can play both sides, and we have so many options in our forward group. I think we’re really deep. So wherever I need to play, I’ll be ready, so it was a good game for everybody.”
Besides the offensive production, what’s been not as obvious is how well he’s played in all three zones. He admitted to his defensive struggles after being moved back to LW for the game against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
“I feel like it’s more natural for me coming back into my own zone,” Lafrenière explained. “It’s things like that where you always a little late (in the d-zone) when you aren’t used to it.”
The Rangers will benefit from Lafrenière having spent time on the right wing in the long run. Playing both sides only adds to his development. But for now, he’s where he needs to be and the points are coming.
Per New York Rangers PR: Lafrenière is the third Ranger under-21 since 2000-01 to record a point streak of six or more games, joining Pavel Buchnevich (8 GP – Nov. 5, 2016-Jan. 19, 2017) and Derek Stepan (6 GP – Nov. 17-26, 2010). His 15 goals are tied for the fourth most on the Rangers. Tonight was his fourth multi-point game of the season.
Bobby Trivigno rumors
The Blueshirts have their eye on an undrafted college star from UMASS, captain Bobby Trivigno. This season, he has 48 points in 36 games which includes 20 goals.
He’s a New York native that was supposed to take part in the Rangers development camp before the season started. Unfortunately, NCAA rules would not allow him to partake in the camp.
Mollie Walker of the NY Post recently reported that the Trivigno had already met with the Rangers about possibly signing with the team. In her latest update, she states that Trivigno has narrowed his choices down to four teams.
The New York Rangers, New York Islanders, Nashville Predators, and Florida Panthers are on his list.
It will be interesting to see where Trivigno goes, but the 23 year-old forward is likely looking for the team with the fastest track to the NHL.
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