The New York Rangers missed the playoffs this season and may look to shake things up with significant roster moves.
NHL insider Jean-Charles Lajoie of TVA Sports suggested a bold trade idea: the Rangers sending Alexis Lafrenière to the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for another former first overall pick.
“Should the Canadiens and Rangers swap two former No. 1 overall selections—Juraj Slafkovsky and Alexis Lafrenière—to give both players a better shot at reaching their potential?” Lajoie asked.
His co-host, Philippe Boucher, supports the idea, particularly from Montreal’s perspective, noting that Lafrenière, a Quebec native, excelled under pressure during his time in the QMJHL.
“He handled the spotlight well in Rimouski,” Boucher said. “Montreal might be a great fit for him.”
Such a deal would be a rare one-for-one trade involving two top draft picks, but it could be mutually beneficial. Both Slafkovsky and Lafrenière might benefit from a fresh start.
Slafkovsky, the 2022 first overall pick, would head to New York. While he hasn’t become the top-line force Montreal envisioned, he could thrive in a second-line role with the Rangers. He’s entering the first season of an eight-year, \$60.8 million contract and tallied 18 goals and 33 assists (51 points) last season.
In return, Montreal would acquire Lafrenière, the 2020 top pick, who would slot into a top-six role and bolster the Canadiens’ offense. Lafrenière is set to begin a seven-year, \$52.15 million contract after posting 17 goals and 28 assists (45 points) last season.
Insider Believes Rangers Could Trade Lafreniere
Despite his long-term deal, some insiders believe the Rangers might entertain trading Lafrenière.
New York Post reporter Mollie Walker suggested that GM Chris Drury could consider moving on.
“Maybe Drury pulled the trigger too early on Lafrenière’s extension,” Walker said on the RINK RAP podcast. “It might be smart to explore trade options now. His performance just hasn’t met expectations.”
Given his youth and former top-pick status, Lafrenière would likely draw significant interest on the market.
Rangers Coach Hopes Team Gets More Competitive
Meanwhile, the Rangers are aiming for a turnaround after a disappointing 39-36-7 season, which cost head coach Peter Laviolette his job. Former Penguins coach Mike Sullivan was quickly brought in as his replacement.
At his introductory press conference on May 8, Sullivan praised the Rangers’ talent and expressed optimism.
“They’ve been close to competing for the Cup in recent years,” Sullivan said. “There’s a lot of talent here, and I’m excited to help this group become as competitive as possible. That’s the ultimate goal—winning the Stanley Cup.”