"Stupid money for that bum": NHL fans react to Rangers' rumored interest in signing former No. 1 pick to $64M+ contract extension

NHL fans are in an uproar over the New York Rangers' rumored interest in signing Alexis Lafrenière to a massive contract extension. The former first overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft has reportedly been in talks with the Rangers about an eight-year, $64 million deal, according to insider Frank Seravalli.

This news has sparked quite the reaction from Rangers fans on social media.

Many fans are questioning the lucrative contract.

One fan wrote:

"Stupid money for that bum."

Another fan wrote:

"Maybe I haven’t been following closely enough but this seems like a bit much for him no?" one fan added.

One fan pointed out:

"Feel like you have to do this or you look very stupid if he goes somewhere else and becomes a star." on X.

However, there were also those who defended the decision. They point out Lafrenière's strong performance last season, where he scored 57 points in 82 games.

"Rightfully deserved. He brings an insane amount of energy to not only the team, but the fans." one fan wrote on X.

"Has become a very good player. Solid all around....hope he gets paid!" another fan wrote.

"All for it but he needs to have an even better year than last. I think he’s going to turn into a superstar and he already had a good start but we have to see." a user commented.

NHL Insider Frank Seravalli on Alexis Lafreniere contract extension with Rangers

Alexis Lafreniere is entering the final year of his two year contract that carries a $2,325,000 cap hit (as per PuckPedia). However, according to NHL insider Frank Seravalli, the Rangers have been hard at work trying to lock up the young winger to a long-term extension this summer.

Talks between the two sides have reportedly made significant progress, but were put on hold briefly as the Rangers prioritized to sign goalie Igor Shesterkin before training camp. With Shesterkin’s extension on hold now, negotiations with Lafrenière can pick back up again.

"Lafreniere being 22 years old — really still just kind of scratching the surface for this team — after a big step forward last year and a monster playoff run for New York, they’re going to need to take care of this guy and this is going to be one of the biggest deals that Lafreniere gets the opportunity to sign.” Seravalli via EmpireSports Media.

As negotiations continue, fans and analysts alike are eagerly awaiting official confirmation on extension for the young forward.