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Rangers' 2020 Draft Class Profound Impact On The 2023-2024 Season

The New York Rangers 2020 draft class has helped the club solidify it's identity as a contender.

By Matthew Mugno

New York Rangers v Toronto Maple Leafs
New York Rangers v Toronto Maple Leafs / Chris Tanouye/GettyImages
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Alexis Lafreniere (2020, 1st Overall)

Alexis Lafreniere
New York Rangers v New Jersey Devils / Sarah Stier/GettyImages

The New York Rangers won the draft lottery in 2020, immediately signifying they would select the QMJHL stand out Alexis Lafreniere.

Entering his fourth NHL season, Lafreniere signed a two-year, $4.65 million bridge contract to prove himself. It is believed that his performance measuring stick would be on this season, making the contract easy to move this summer if the 2020 first-overall pick underperformed.

Lafreniere was moved up and down the lineup, but since he reunited with Vincent Trocheck and Artemi Panairn the line has become the Ranger's most effective unit this season and one of the best in the entire NHL.

Combined, the trio has amassed 36 goals in 56 games played together, generating 829 chances (Natural Stat Trick).

The 22-year-old game has excelled on both ends of the ice, leading to increased production and flashes of brilliant skill. He has posted 39 points (18 goals, 21 assists) in 65 games played with limited power-play time, matching his career high in 81 games last season.