Mike Sullivan’s faith in Alexis Lafrenière is going to pay off

Writer Maya Smith argues that New York Rangers head coach Mike Sullivan's trust in Alexis Lafrenière is yielding strong results early in the 2026-27 NHL season. Following the off-season acquisition of Pavel Dorofeyev, Sullivan contacted Lafrenière to guarantee his continued role on the primary power play, praising the winger's work ethic and late-season resurgence from the previous campaign.

Lafrenière has started the new season on a point-per-game pace through seven games, tallying four goals across two contests, including a hat trick against the New York Islanders. Smith highlights that Sullivan's public backing and power-play deployment have been vital for Lafrenière's confidence, especially amid an injury to goaltender Igor Shesterkin.