Alexis Lafrenière and New York Rangers Agree to 7-Year, $52.15 Million Contract Extension

Alexis Lafrenière, the first overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft, has agreed to a 7-year contract extension with the New York Rangers. The deal, which was confirmed by sources to ESPN, carries an average annual value (AAV) of $7.45 million and will run through the 2031-32 season.

Lafrenière, 23, had a breakout season last year, scoring 28 goals and 29 assists for 57 points in 82 games. He continued his strong performance in the playoffs, contributing 14 points in 16 games, including 8 goals, which tied him with Vincent Trocheck for the team lead.

This season, Lafrenière has maintained his momentum, scoring 4 goals and 3 assists in the Rangers’ first seven games, averaging a career-best 17:51 minutes of ice time per game. His improved performance is attributed in part to the coaching change that brought Peter Laviolette to the Rangers, who adjusted Lafrenière’s position and increased his ice time.

The contract includes a front-loaded structure with an $8 million signing bonus when the deal takes effect next season. Lafrenière will also have a no-movement and no-trade clause starting in the 2027-28 season. This extension keeps Lafrenière from reaching restricted free agency for the second time in his career and provides the Rangers with a key player at a relatively affordable price.

Lafrenière’s deal is seen as a significant commitment by the Rangers, reflecting his growth and potential as a key player in the team’s future. The contract’s total value is $52.15 million, a figure that was deemed inconceivable just two years ago given Lafrenière’s early career performance.