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Alexis Lafreniere taking his Rangers game to next level comes with clear Mika Zibanejad assist
Alexis Lafrenière’s improved defensive play has sharpened his overall game, helping him become a more influential Rangers forward. His progress matters as he takes on a bigger role on the team’s top line, where coach Mike Sullivan has stressed turning defence into attack.
Lafrenière has played alongside Mika Zibanejad in all but three games this season, after sharing the ice with him for the final 22 games of last season and 47 times overall. He led the Rangers with nine goals before their 3-1 win over the St Louis Blues on Tuesday.
In short
- Lafrenière’s defensive improvement is lifting his all-round game.
- He has become a regular on the Rangers’ top line.
- He led the team with nine goals before Tuesday’s win.
Explained simply
The New York Rangers are a team in the National Hockey League, North America’s top ice hockey league. Forwards Alexis Lafrenière and Mika Zibanejad are teammates; Zibanejad is an established centre, while Lafrenière has been taking on a bigger role in the attack.
In hockey, forwards are expected to help prevent the other team scoring as well as create chances themselves. Coach Mike Sullivan has emphasised turning defensive play into attacks, so Lafrenière’s work without the puck is relevant to his growing influence. His partnership with Zibanejad is one part of that development.