New York Rangers draft Alexis Lafreniere first overall in the 2020 NHL Draft

As predicted, the New York Rangers have drafted Alexis Lafreniere first overall in this year’s NHL Draft.

So, who is this 18-year-old kid and why is he seen as such a slam dunk? Let’s dive in and get to know the NHL’s newest young star.

As you may have guessed from his name Alexis Lafreniere is Canadian and grew up in a predominantly French suburb in Quebec. He was drafted first in the 2017 Quebec Major Junior Hockey League entry draft by Rimouski Océanic and has spent the past few years dominating the QMJHL. In his rookie season he scored 42 goals in 60 games, the highest goal total for a rookie since Sidney Crosby (ever heard of him?) scored 54 for Océanic in 2004. In his two seasons since that rookie campaign, Lafreniere has posted 72 goals and 217 points in 113 games.

New York is in the middle of a rebuild that is moving along quite quickly and the addition of Lafreniere, who has superstar potential on the wing, should help them further expedite their path to being a contender. They have a number of young, exciting pieces that they’re building around and adding Lafreniere will make their outlook even brighter, though they’re likely going to need to prioritize getting stronger down the middle in order to maximize the immediate contributions of a young player like Lafreniere on the wing.

With all that in mind, there’s plenty of reason for the Rangers to be excited about the direction of the team moving forward!

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Igor Burdetskiy

Founder, Editor-in-Chief, & CEO at Hooked on Hockey Magazine

I grew up playing Ball and Roller Hockey day and night somewhat religiously throughout elementary and middle school. The two don't compare though when I lace up the skates and hit the ice. I live and breathe hockey beyond the perspective of "it's just a game" and I will gladly talk hockey for hours with anyone. Hockey is more than just a lifestyle, it's a culture of passionate people who make memories every time the puck is dropped. Hockey has not only helped me get through some of the hardest times in life but has created some of the best memories to date. Want to talk hockey with me? Shoot me an email: iburdetskiy@hookedonhockey.com and let's talk some hockey!

@igorburdetskiy

Igor Burdetskiy

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