Massive expectations were placed on Alexis Lafrenière even before he slipped a Blueshirt over his head by virtue of the fact that he was the No. 1 overall pick of the NHL draft. Expectations heightened because he drew acclaim for his production in the QMJHL that was similar to Sidney Crosby. It was a different situation than the year before with Kaapo Kakko, as Lafrenière was a clear cut No. 1 overall pick from start to post.
There was an acknowledgment that the situation Lafrenière was entering with the New York Rangers would be challenging, joining an NHL team starting the season late because COVID-19.