Alexis Lafrenière's extension is a steal for the New York Rangers – Hockey Writers – Rangers Transactions

The New York Rangers made a significant move by locking up 2020 first overall pick Alexis Lafrenière to a seven-year contract, carrying an average annual value (AAV) of $7.45 million. First reported by PuckPedia and later confirmed by Vince Mercogliano, the deal cements Lafrenière's future in New York and shows the organization's faith in the 22-year-old forward, who posted 57 points in 82 games last season, with 51 of those points. comes with equal force.

Acquiring Lafrenière at this price is a smart move for the Rangers, as insiders like Frank Seravalli have previously pointed out that the young star could have commanded more than $8 million a year. The contract leaves New York with about $25 million in cap space, significant funds that will be needed to re-sign key players like Igor Shesterkin and K'Andre Miller, as well as fill seven to eight other spots. However, with limited cap space remaining after securing those contracts, Lafrenière's deal is an important part of the Rangers' cap flexibility in building a long-term contender.

Lafrenière's Breakthrough Year and Continuing Impact

After recording 21, 31, and 39 points in his first three seasons, Lafrenière took a significant step forward last season, thriving on a line with Artemi Panarin and Vincent Trocheck. His first season saw him score 57 points, including 51 in a tie, and that momentum continued into the new season, when he tallied seven points in seven games—all at even strength. Lafrenière is quickly emerging as a star in the NHL, and his new contract extension looks like an absolute steal.

As the salary increases, this deal—already below market value—will continue to benefit the Rangers by taking a small percentage of their cap each season, giving New York significant flexibility to build around him and their core talent.

Managing Expiring Contracts and Cap Flexibility

The Rangers have 10 players with expiring contracts this season, including key players like Shesterkin and Miller. Additionally, several pending unrestricted free agents—Reilly Smith, Ryan Lindgren, Jonathan Quick, and Jimmy Vesey—and pending free agents—Kaapo Kakko, Adam Edstrom, Will Cuylle, and Zac Jones—will be renewed. Lafrenière's decision to accept $7.45 million per year gives the Rangers a significant edge in handling these signings. With this additional cap space, the team gains the flexibility to keep an important part of this team that may not be visible or pursue budget-friendly free agents like they did with Jimmy Vesey or Sam Carrick. Ultimately, Lafrenière's team-friendly contract opens the door for New York to build a balanced and competitive roster around their young, emerging talent.

Future Cap Challenges and Potential Roster Mobility

As the Rangers contemplate the 2025 offseason, two big questions await the future contracts of Miller and Shesterkin. Shesterkin, having declined an eight-year extension with an AAV of $11 million, is likely to pay the cap, while Miller—though no contract negotiations have been reported—will also require a significant investment, projected at $5.5 to $6.5 million. width. If both players receive max deals, the Rangers will be left with only $6.5 million to complete their roster depth.

Related: Rangers Sign Alexis Lafreniere to 7-year extension

This tight space could force New York to make tough decisions, especially regarding players like Kakko, whose contract expires after this year, and Cuylle, who has started well and could earn more than initially expected. Without landing a big contract—like Jacob Trouba's—the Rangers may struggle to retain their young talent. As it stands, Trouba appears to be the most viable salary cap option, giving the Rangers a way to maintain roster flexibility and remain competitive in a rising salary cap space. While moving a big contract like Trouba's might seem like a logical way to create cap space, the Rangers may be reluctant to part ways with their captain. Trouba showed significant improvement last season. His improved performance makes him even more important to the system, adding another layer of complexity to any potential move to clear the cap.

Front Street of Rangers and Lafrenière

Lafrenière's new contract is a smart, team-friendly deal that cements his role in the Rangers' future and provides significant cap flexibility. With Shesterkin, Miller, and other key players needing new deals soon, New York will need to carefully manage their cap space to keep their young core intact. Although tough decisions lie ahead, securing Lafrenière at this price strengthens Rangers' foundation and positions them to remain competitive as they build for a long-term rivalry.