The New York Rangers will not dress forward Alexis Lafrenière for their game against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Amalie Arena on Thursday, head coach Gerard Gallant told reporters.

Lafrenière, 21, has five goals and 17 points in 36 games with the Rangers this season. The Rangers originally selected him with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft.

Sammy Blais will draw into the Rangers’ lineup in Lafrenière’s place against the Lightning on Thursday. The two rotated on the Rangers’ fourth line with Jonny Brodzinski and Jimmy Vesey at practice on Wednesday and at Thursday’s morning skate.