The best decision New York Rangers coach Peter Laviolette made last season was to pair Artemi Panarin alongside Alexis Lafrenière. Through the first three seasons of Lafrenière’s career, he struggled to truly break out despite his incredible potential. However, upon being put on a line with Panarin, Lafrenière had his best statistical season, recording 28 goals, 29 assists and 57 points in 82 games. Meanwhile, Panarin was statistically one of the top players in the entire NHL as he tallied 49 goals, 71 assists and 120 points. Sean Avery Illustrates Rangers Perfect Shift These two electric forwards along with Vincent Trocheck helped propel the Rangers to the league’s best regular season record. This upcoming season Panarin and Lafrenière have the opportunity to put up historic numbers and establish themselves as a premiere dynamic duo. At 22-years-old, Lafrenière is blossoming into a star before our very eyes and with the help of Panarin, the sky’s the limit for what he can accomplish. Both players are exceptional playmakers and magicians with the puck on their sticks. They are not only looking to score, but have the ability to find each other in the most creative and flashy ways that will leave fans in awe. When it comes to being a true Stanley Cup contender, teams must have a unique element to their roster. The duo of Panarin and Lafrenière is one that is more than just unique, it’s special. These two will have to be the driving factors in order for the Rangers to win their first Stanley Cup since 1994.
