Lafreniere, 23.9 with 380 games and 1.28 FPPG, faces a make-or-break moment; top-line duties and a strong supporting cast could unlock meaningful fantasy upside in a contract year-like window.

Lafrenière’s breakout potential is tied to a healthier, more dynamic trio with Panarin and Trocheck, reviving a high-end line that can drive offense and carry the Rangers back toward playoff contention.

Lafrenière’s future is pivotal: a stay could yield a clear top-six role and power-play minutes, while a trade could recalibrate the roster and free up minutes for others. His fantasy arc hinges on role clarity, linemate quality, and contract-year pressure driving urgency.

Lafrenière is framed for a breakthrough season, possibly as a winger on the Miller-Zibanejad axis or as a top-six center if forced. Expectations rest on development progress, top-line PP involvement, and embracing a bigger, more physical role on the wing.

Lafrenière is framed as the key to waking the top power play; a prominent PP role could unlock scoring and confidence, with his playmaking and ice sense amplified in the extra man. The debate centers on giving him the runway to producer and the upside if he thrives.