New York Rangers captain Jacob Trouba will sit out the game against the Pittsburgh Penguins due to “roster management purposes,” as the team explores potential trade options for him, an NHL source has confirmed. The Rangers are actively discussing trades involving the 30-year-old defenseman, who has a 15-team no-trade clause in his contract that runs until the end of the 2025-26 season, carrying an $8 million salary cap hit.
Recent discussions about Trouba have taken place with several teams, including the Detroit Red Wings, Columbus Blue Jackets, Ottawa Senators, and Buffalo Sabres. To expedite a trade, the Rangers might consider waiving Trouba, which would remove his control over potential trade destinations, similar to a situation last June when forward Barclay Goodrow was placed on waivers, enabling the Rangers to clear his contract when claimed by the San Jose Sharks.
Trouba’s contract shifted from a full no-movement clause to a partial no-trade clause on July 1, raising questions about his future. Reports suggest the Rangers sought his trade list while he still held the full clause, indicating their intention to facilitate a deal. So far this season, Trouba has six assists and a minus-3 rating, averaging 20 minutes of ice time per night during his sixth year with the Rangers. He became captain of the team for the 2022-2023 season and is known as one of the league’s leading checking defensemen.
Currently, the Rangers are struggling with a record of 13-10-1, sitting fourth in the Metropolitan Division and occupying the last wild-card playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Following a series of losses, general manager Chris Drury communicated to all 31 NHL teams that the Rangers were open to trades, highlighting Trouba and veteran forward Chris Kreider as potential candidates.
The speculation surrounding Trouba’s future has weighed heavily on him this season. During training camp, he expressed his frustration, particularly regarding media reports that involved his wife, Dr. Kelly Tyson-Trouba, and how her medical career might influence trade considerations. Despite this uncertainty, Trouba has expressed his love for New York and his desire to remain with the team.
In anticipation of Trouba’s absence, the Rangers have called up AHL defenseman Victor Mancini to strengthen their lineup.
This situation emphasizes the often tumultuous nature of professional sports, where trades can create uncertainty for players. However, Trouba’s dedication to his family and the city of New York adds a personal dimension to the trade speculation, and fans hope that he can find a resolution that works best for both him and the team.