Expectations were moderate this year for former first overall pick Alexis Lafrenière. This is the case since the Saint-Eustache native had a rather quiet first season in the NHL with a total of 21 points in 56 games.
After a promising start to the season with three points in five games, the Quebecer seemed to be settling in with the Rangers as a top-6 player.
This is another proof that things change quickly in hockey, as Lafrenière is out of gas. The forward has just one assist in his last nine games.
What's worrisome in his case is the low amount of playing time he's getting from coach Gerard Gallant. In three of his last four games, the Quebecer's ice time did not exceed 10 minutes and 7 seconds.
Lafrenière was also demoted to the third line with Julien Gauthier and Barclay Goodrow. However, he is still employed on the team's second power play unit.
It is important to remember that Lafrenière is only 20 years old and that nothing is alarming in his case yet. It happens more often than not that the progression of a youngster takes longer than expected before he becomes the player he should be.
For the Quebecer, would it have been beneficial to take a little more time in his development? The question arises since Lafrenière is still not an impact player in the NHL.
