Rangers’ Young Stars Struggling to Find Scoring Touch

So far this season, Alexis Lafrenière and Will Cuill each have only one goal in their first eight games. That’s not quite what was anticipated, especially considering they netted a combined 37 goals just last year.

This lack of scoring has contributed to the Rangers’ offensive inconsistencies early in the season.

Head coach Mike Sullivan mentioned at a recent practice in Tarrytown, “I think there’s a new level to their game,” referring to Lafrenière and Cuille’s potential for growth.

For Lafrenière, who recently turned 24, this goal drought extends a struggle that began after a standout season with 28 goals two years ago. Although he hasn’t seen the net often lately, his mindset remains positive: “Just keep going, keep shooting,” he said. “I have a chance, but the chance never comes.”

Interestingly, Lafrenière trails only Mika Zibanejad on the team for shots on goal, with 22. Cuill is right behind him with 18.

Sullivan emphasized that part of the training is about encouraging both players to get closer to the crease. It’s about positioning, whether crashing the net or responding better on rushes. “They’re talented enough to create scoring opportunities,” he reiterated.

Sullivan briefly participated in a power play drill during Wednesday’s elongated practice. It seemed to be a unique moment, distinct from the messages he shared with the players afterward. “It was different. It was between me and the team,” he noted.

The coach is looking to elevate the team’s performance on both power play and penalty kill units. He expressed a desire for the penalty kill to exhibit the same level of intensity as the power play, emphasizing the importance of competition during practices. “Sometimes we unintentionally give the power play an edge,” he reflected. “We need our penalty kill to push them to their limits.”

Sullivan is calling for a more aggressive strategy to get pucks on net, aiming for improvement in a power play that hasn’t flourished recently.

Meanwhile, on the defensive side, Igor Shesterkin continues to impress as he leads the NHL with a goals-against average of 1.17 and a save percentage of .957. Sullivan commended Shesterkin, stating, “He’s one of the top goaltenders in the league.” He also acknowledged the defense’s role in supporting Shesterkin’s strong performance, highlighting the team’s success in limiting high-quality shots and second-chance opportunities.