The New York Rangers and breakout star Alexis Lafreniere will not be discussing an contract extension now.
It was reported by the USA Today's Vincent Mercogliano said that he doesn't expect the Rangers to discuss an extension with the winger until they have settled things with Igor Shesterkin.
Lafreniere now, is entering his second-year deal with a $2.325 Million AAV and is secure in the fact he will play out the last year of his contract and enter arbitration with the Rangers.
Lafreniere was a first-round pick in 2020 and was considered a bust early in his career, not producing up to expectations.
But his performance would improve season after season, as last season he produced career highs in goals, assists, points and games played, 57( 28 G, 29 A) in 82 games played.
It's uncertain if the Rangers will lockdown Lafreniere long-term, considering his recent increase in production, will of course be worthy of a raise. He isn't just a one-dimensional play, getting in the dirty spots on the ice, and getting physical as well.
If he continues to make a huge leap in production next season, there's no telling what kind of salary cap juggling the Rangers will have to do to make him fit under the ceiling.