It’s been eight years since the New York Rangers issued “The Letter” to fans, signaling a rebuild. Now, the Rangers could be ready to part ways with a player who was supposed to be a part of bringing the Stanley Cup back to New York.

Alexis Lafrenière’s name is starting to buzz again around the NHL trade market — and this time, it’s personal. Once the cornerstone of the Rangers’ post-rebuild hopes, the 24-year-old winger has quietly slipped from breakout star to a player whose future in New York is suddenly uncertain.

After posting 57 points in 2023-24, Lafrenière is in the midst of another disappointing campaign, and whispers are growing that GM Chris Drury no longer considers him a part of the Rangers’ long-term plan. 

The seven-year, $52.15 million contract that once marked him as untouchable now makes moving him a challenge — but for a team willing to bet on talent and a fresh start, the payoff could be enormous.

With the March 6 trade deadline looming and the Rangers ready to “retool” their roster, fans are confronting a reality few expected: the former 2020 No.1 overall pick may be on the move. 

Here are three teams that could be interested in trading for Lafrenière to give him a much-needed fresh start.

1. Chicago Blackhawks

If the Rangers decide that Lafrenière needs a total reset away from the pressure of New York, Chicago is the most logical destination. 

The Blackhawks are built around the generational talent of Connor Bedard and are desperate to find a high-skill winger to grow alongside him.

Trade Logic: Lafrenière fits the Blackhawks’ rebuild timeline perfectly. In Chicago, he would immediately step into a top-line role with massive power-play minutes — opportunities that have been inconsistent under Mike Sullivan in New York.
Potential Deal: A package involving a high-end defensive prospect like Kevin Korchinski or a 2026 first-round pick could be the starting point of a potential deal.

2. Montreal Canadiens

Rumors about Lafrenière returning to Quebec have been swirling since he was drafted. 

With the Canadiens looking to transition from a rebuild to a playoff contender, acquiring a French-Canadian star who hasn’t yet hit his prime is a unique buy-low opportunity.

Trade Logic: Montreal has the cap flexibility and the draft capital to take on Lafrenière’s $7.45M AAV without blinking. Furthermore, the Canadiens haven’t shied away from taking a chance on former high draft picks (Kirby Dach).
Potential Deal: To make the salaries work, a deal might involve Dach or a package centered around Owen Beck and a 2027 second-round pick. It would be a “change of scenery” swap for two players who have struggled to break through.

3. Seattle Kraken

The Rangers and Kraken have become frequent trade partners, most notably in the swap that sent Kaapo Kakko to Seattle for Will Borgen. 

The Kraken are currently hovering around the playoff bubble and lack a true “game-breaker” on the wings.

Trade Logic: Seattle has plenty of cap space and a desperate need for offensive flair. Rumors have even suggested a blockbuster involving Shane Wright, another former top prospect who has struggled to find his footing. A “Lafrenière for Wright” swap would be the ultimate gamble for both GMs.
Potential Deal: A package involving Shane Wright and a middle-six roster player would allow the Rangers to reset their center depth while giving Seattle the top-six winger they’ve lacked since their inception.

Final Thoughts

The primary roadblock in any Lafrenière deal is the contract. He is currently in Year 1 of a seven-year deal that runs through 2032. While he doesn’t have trade protection until 2027, his $7.45M cap hit is a significant commitment for a player who has yet to prove he can drive a line on his own.