This is the version of Alexis Lafrenière the Rangers need

Alexis Lafrenière was under heavy criticism during this recent offseason. Lafrenière signed a seven-year, $52.15M contract during the beginning of the 2024-25 season where he was on fire with seven points in the teams first seven games. However after that deal was signed, the former first overall pick had 32 points in 75 games; under a half point per game pace.

So, heading into this season expectations were that he would bounce back and return to that late 2023-24 form. But things didn't go quite as well as anyone would have wanted for him and everyone on the team. After the first seven games of this early season, Lafrenière only had a goal and an assist; both against the Buffalo Sabres. Eye test wise, Lafrenière did not look as noticeable as fans would have hoped for. Alexis looked like more of a passenger rather than the force with the puck that he could be.

For Lafrenière the analytics were pretty good, but nothing eye popping. Among players on the team, he ranked eight among all players, fifth in forwards in his expected goals for (xGF), along with being third among forwards and all players in his expected goals share (xGF%).

But after the Sharks game, it feels like a flip switched in Lafrenière. He looks more aggressive with the puck on his stick, while using his IQ to set up plays for teammates. Analytically an improvement is seen as well; his xGF is third among forwards, fifth on the team, while his xGF% is first.

Consistency has been an issue with Lafrenière in the past but with Vincent Trocheck back in the fold for the Rangers, he could continue this hot stretch in proving that he indeed is the $52M player New York signed him to last year. The confidence looks to be back, now let's see if this stretch is a sign of things to come or a lucky stretch.