Jacob Trouba Opens Up About Trade Rumors and Relationship with Rangers
Jacob Trouba, the captain of the New York Rangers, recently addressed the trade rumors that have been circulating about his future with the team. Despite reports that the Rangers were trying to trade him during the offseason, Trouba maintained that there is no animosity between him and the management.
Trouba, who has two years left on his seven-year contract with a cap hit of $8 million, saw his contract shift from a full no-movement clause to a partial 15-team no-trade clause on July 1. Reports indicated that the Rangers had asked Trouba for his no-trade list while he still had a full no-movement clause, suggesting that they were exploring trade options for him.
During the start of the Rangers training camp, Trouba explained, “I don’t think there was any animosity throughout the whole thing. Per my contract, I owe the list to them on June 30th. I knew that was coming. I think that’s a pretty standard part of contracts when a no-trade list has to be submitted. There’s a date that has to be done by. It’s just standard contract business.”
Rangers general manager Chris Drury also confirmed that communication with Trouba has been positive, stating, “We’ve had a number of different conversations over the course of the summer, on a lot of different things. He is very clear as to where he stands with me and what I think of him as a player and as a leader.”
Despite the speculation surrounding his future with the team, Trouba expressed his desire to remain in New York. He emphasized his love for living in the city and his excitement to be back with the Rangers for the upcoming season. Trouba also addressed the rumors about his wife’s medical career potentially impacting trade destinations, calling out the media for spreading unfounded information.
As the Rangers gear up for the new season, Trouba acknowledged the reality of being in the NHL, where trades are a common occurrence. He stated, “I knew that was coming that summer. It’s not by surprise. It’s part of pro sports. I can get traded now. I know that. I knew that when I signed the contract that at this moment that I could get traded.”
Looking ahead, Trouba sees this season as a crucial opportunity for the Rangers’ core group to make a push for a championship. With the team coming off a strong performance in the previous season, including a trip to the Eastern Conference final, Trouba believes that they have what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Coach Peter Laviolette also praised Trouba’s leadership on the team, describing him as a key part of the Rangers’ success. Trouba echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the bond that the players have developed over the years and their shared goal of winning a championship.
In conclusion, Jacob Trouba’s candid remarks shed light on the challenges and uncertainties that come with being a professional athlete in the NHL. Despite the trade rumors and speculation, Trouba remains committed to the Rangers and is focused on achieving success with his teammates on the ice. As the new season kicks off, all eyes will be on Trouba and the Rangers as they strive to reach their ultimate goal of winning the Stanley Cup.