It's Time To Celebrate Alexis Lafrenière's New Contract

Okay, so he isn't as good as Ten-Cup-Winner-Hall-Of-Famer Jean Beliveau yet, but Alexis Lafrenière's new seven-year contract is at least worth one big YAY!

In other words, The Large Fellow from St-Eustache, Quebec will be the one in the future who'll lead the likes of Gabe Perreault, Brennan Othmann, EJ Emery and assorted other Rangers prospects not named Matt Rempe.

"From what Alexis has shown so far," says The Old Scout, "he should become among the NHL's top ten forwards in a year or two. In a few seasons he could wind up being the Rangers captain."

General Manager Chris Drury made good on his off-season promise to sign the 6-1, 194 pound left wing and that will be worth celebrating tonight at The Garden with Anaheim serving duck soup for the hungry Blueshirts.

"The Rangers stunk out the joint the other night against Florida," adds The Old Scout, "but they can make up for it – at least a bit – by feasting on Ducks."

Now we wait and see how long it takes Drury to pull in his biggest fish – the demanding goalie Igor Shesterkin. That is, assuming that the two disputing sides can agree.

Let's not forget that Shesty's camp said it wanted its client signed before the season started or – threat-threat – there would be no discussion in season. But we all know that Iggy’s threats are worth The Square Root Of A Three-Dollar Bill.

What appears to be the issue – apart from making Shesty the highest-paid goalie in the league – is term. Should it be long – as in Big Al's seven years or a nice, juicy three-year shorty to fund The Avaricious One's eventual plane ticket back to Mother Russia.

Or, maybe Shesty will just buy the plane and get it over with – Da or Nyet?

Then again he still could be a free agent next year; get it over with and sign with a team that REALLY needs a goalie – Toronto!