Alexis Lafreniere's hat trick leads Rangers to win over Flames

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Alexis Lafreniere scored a hat trick to lead the New York Rangers to a 4-0 win over the Calgary Flames. Lafreniere's three goals, including the game-winner, were part of a recent scoring spree that has seen him tally 13 points in his last nine games. Conor Sheary also scored for the Rangers, while goaltender Jonathan Quick recorded 21 saves for the shutout victory.

Why it matters

Lafreniere's breakout performance is a positive sign for the Rangers, who have struggled this season and are unlikely to make the playoffs. The former first overall pick's scoring surge provides hope for the team's future and shows he is living up to his high draft status.

The details

Lafreniere opened the scoring late in the first period with a power-play goal that deflected off his stick. Sheary extended the lead in the second period off a fortuitous bounce, and Lafreniere added two more goals in the third period to complete the hat trick. Quick made 21 saves to earn his first shutout since October.

• Lafreniere scored his first goal late in the first period on the power play.
• Sheary scored in the second period to make it 2-0 Rangers.
• Lafreniere scored his second and third goals in the third period to complete the hat trick.

What’s next

The Rangers will look to build on this win and continue their recent surge as the season winds down, though they remain unlikely to make the playoffs this year.