The Stanley Cup was awarded just three days ago. Yet, here we are, the day before the draft, and just days away from free agency opening. If we blink too many times, we may find ourselves at day one of the new season (although that would not be a bad thing!). As the excitement only continues to build, we have another round of rumours to report. Today, the New York Rangers have reportedly asked Jacob Trouba for his no-trade list.
NHL Rumours
Rumour: Chris Johnston from The Athletic reports that the Rangers have asked Trouba to submit a trade list
Trouba’s contract changes from a full no-movement clause to a 15-team no trade list on Monday when the new league year begins. The Athletic’s Arthur Staple has announced that the Rangers have asked Trouba for his 15-team list.
Further to our man @reporterchris adding Jacob Trouba to his trade board — have heard that #NYR asked Trouba’s camp for the 15 teams on his no-trade list. That clause activates July 1. https://t.co/y14SWacF9v
— Arthur Staple (@StapeAthletic) June 27, 2024
The Rangers Have Financial Reasons To Move Their Captain
Trouba has been a reliable member of the Rangers blue line since he joined the team in 2019. He was even later named the Rangers captain.
However, Trouba does carry a cap hit $8 million each of the next two seasons. The Rangers have multiple players due for extensions this off-season. Furthermore, star goalie Igor Shesterkin will be an unrestricted free agent after this coming season. Freeing up money now can help the Rangers lock up Shesterkin and other core players sooner rather than later.
The Rangers may also have interest in bringing in players outside the organization. There is speculation that the Rangers may try to sign Patrick Kane. Kane spent some time with the Rangers following a trade in 2023. Kane spent last season with the Detroit Red Wings.
Trouba’s Production Has Been Dipping
In addition to the financial needs, Trouba’s production has been dipping. Trouba recorded 22 points in 69 games this past season. He posted a minus-3.2 offensive goals above replacement and minus-2.3 defensive goals above replacement.
Trouba found himself on the third pairing at times during the postseason in favor of Braden Schneider. Trouba’s ice time dropped from 21:15 in the regular season to 20:59 in the playoffs, while Schneider’s rose from 15:54 to 17:32.
$8 million for a defenceman playing on the third pairing is a heavy price. While it is possible Trouba bounces back, trading him now while his value is still high could be the best decision for the Rangers.
How Will The Market Look?
It is unknown what teams are on Trouba’s no-trade list. It can be assumed it is teams who are not in contention. Trouba may base part of his list off where he would rather not live over the next two seasons.
The market for Trouba will depend on if teams are worried about his decline in production and/or being placed on the third pairing during the postseason. It will be interesting to see if the Rangers have to retain any of the contract in a trade. However, any money saved is a good thing in the bigger picture.
If the market is not what the Rangers are wanting, they will most likely hang on to Trouba and hope he can bounce back next season. This not like the Kevin Shattenkirk situation, where the Rangers just had to part ways with Shattenkirk immediately. Trouba can still be an asset for the Rangers If Trouba does bounce back, his value will go up and the Rangers will most likely trade him at that point.
Main Photo: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
