Here are the line combos at the team's practice facility in Tarrytown, per Vince Z. Mercogliano on X:
This could very well be the line combination that will enter into the first game of the regular season.
One noticeable surprise is Alexis Lafreniere practicing on the third line in favor of Will Cuylle.
The former No. 1 pick for the Rangers finished a poor training camp and preseason, while adjusting to switching from his natural position from left wing to right wing, which may explain why Lafreniere had not earned a top-six spot.
One can argue that Alexis Lafreniere has not even earned a spot on the roster. Newly hired head coach, Peter Laviolette, of course want Alexis Lafreniere to succeed and nail down that top-six spot, especially with a breakout season being the catalyst that can propel the Rangers deep in the playoffs, maybe to the Stanley Cup Finals.
Only time will tell if that breakout season is still possible.
The New York Rangers will open the regular season Thursday, October 12, against the Buffalo Sabers, in Buffalo.
POLL | ||
Does Alexis Lafreniere deserve a top six spot on the team to start the season? | ||
Yes | 43 | 44.8 % |
No | 53 | 55.2 % |
List of polls |