Lafreniere Leads Rangers in Clash with Capitals

New York's star forward looks to continue hot streak against struggling Washington defense.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 2:05pm

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Alexis Lafreniere has been on a tear lately, racking up 23 points in his last 22 games for the New York Rangers. Our predictions expect the former first overall pick to keep his momentum going against a Washington Capitals squad that has struggled defensively, ranking 23rd in expected goals and 27th in shot attempts allowed per 60 over the past 10 games. With the Capitals potentially starting a worn-out goaltender for the third time in four days, Lafreniere is primed to produce.

Why it matters

This matchup features two Metropolitan Division rivals fighting for playoff positioning. The Rangers are looking to solidify their spot, while the Capitals are trying to claw their way back into the postseason picture. Lafreniere's continued strong play could be a key factor in determining the outcome.

The details

Alexis Lafreniere has been on a tear lately, racking up 23 points over his last 22 games. He's shown the ability to drive offense even without star teammate Artemi Panarin. The Capitals' defense has been a weak spot, ranking near the bottom of the league in key metrics like expected goals and shot attempts allowed per 60 over the past 10 games. With the Capitals potentially starting a tired goaltender for the third time in four days, Lafreniere has a prime opportunity to continue his hot streak.

  • Lafreniere has 23 points in his last 22 games.
  • The Capitals have struggled defensively, ranking 23rd in expected goals and 27th in shot attempts allowed per 60 over the past 10 games.
  • The Capitals may start a worn-out goaltender for the third time in four days.

The players

Alexis Lafreniere

A 24-year-old forward for the New York Rangers who was the first overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft. He has been on a tear lately, racking up 23 points in his last 22 games.

Adam Fox

A 24-year-old defenseman for the New York Rangers who is one of the most impactful blueliners in the NHL. He has picked up a point in 13 of his last 15 games and tallied 15 assists during that stretch.

Igor Shesterkin

The starting goaltender for the New York Rangers who generally doesn't need much run support to win games.

Logan Thompson

The starting goaltender for the Washington Capitals who may be worn out after starting three games in four days.

Charlie Lindgren

The backup goaltender for the Washington Capitals who has a poor .886 save percentage this season.

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What they’re saying

“Alexis Lafreniere has been playing some of the best hockey of his career lately. He's really driving our offense and making things happen.”

— Gerard Gallant, Head Coach, New York Rangers

“Our defense and goaltending have been major issues for us lately. We need to tighten things up if we want to get back into the playoff race.”

— Peter Laviolette, Head Coach, Washington Capitals

What’s next

The Rangers and Capitals will meet again on April 10th at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. This will be an important rematch as both teams jockey for playoff positioning in the tight Metropolitan Division race.

The takeaway

Alexis Lafreniere's hot streak has been a major boost for the Rangers, and he has a prime opportunity to continue that production against a struggling Capitals defense. If Lafreniere and other Rangers stars like Adam Fox can take advantage, it could propel New York to a crucial victory in the playoff race.