Based on recent reports, it is expected that the New York Rangers will retain captain Jacob Trouba for the upcoming season, despite previous rumors of a potential trade before the opening of free agency.
The decision to retain Trouba is influenced by several factors, including the need to minimize the impact of trade rumors and the practicality of replacing him on the blue line.
Additionally, it is noted that a breakup with Trouba is “almost certain” next year due to salary cap constraints and upcoming contract negotiations for other players.
The Rangers were reportedly working on a trade that would have sent Trouba to the Detroit Red Wings, but this did not come to fruition.
Trouba currently has a two-year contract with an $8 million cap hit and a no-movement clause that has been waived to a list of 15 teams he does not want to be traded to.
It is also mentioned that Trouba’s performance and his significant salary cap hit have been points of discussion, especially considering the possibility of him being moved to a third-pairing role.
Personal factors, such as Trouba’s wife’s residency and their recent parenthood, have also been cited as potential reasons contributing to the likelihood of Trouba staying with the Rangers.
Trouba’s personal circumstances, including his family’s roots in New York and the recent birth of his son, are noted as factors that could influence his desire to remain with the team.
As the offseason progresses, finding a trade for Trouba will prove challenging, and General Manager Chris Drury would face a tough task in replacing him.
The most prudent move for the Rangers would be to retain Trouba for the upcoming season and focus on repairing the relationship with their captain.
Trouba’s presence on the roster for the upcoming season could potentially become a season-long storyline that undermines the team’s focus on achieving their goal of winning the Stanley Cup.
