The New York Rangers are working on a trade to send Jacob Trouba to the Anaheim Ducks. This news comes from Arthur Staple at The Athletic, following Pierre LeBrun’s hint that Anaheim was leading the race for Trouba. ESPN’s Emily Kaplan adds that Urho Vaakanainen and a draft pick are headed to New York in return.
Trouba’s time with the Rangers has been rocky, with trade rumors swirling around him for a year. He almost went to Detroit last offseason but used his no-trade clause to stop it. Aaron Portzline reports he blocked another trade to Columbus just this past Friday.
Now, Trouba is joining his third team in 12 years since being drafted ninth overall in 2012. Once captain of the Rangers during their President’s Trophy season in 2023-24, he’s now moving to a team sitting near the bottom of league standings and hasn’t seen playoffs since 2017-18 . Frank Seravalli notes that Trouba agreed to waive his no-trade clause for this move, likely due to recent struggles impacting New York’s decision.
Trade Details and Implications:
Despite recent challenges, Trouba is known for his physical play on defense. His big hits have made him famous across the NHL, which will fit well with Greg Cronin’s style in Anaheim. The Ducks already have tough players like Radko Gudas and adding Trouba strengthens their defense further.
Fans might wonder if this change will bring new energy or just more of the same old story.
The Rangers get Urho Vaakanainen and a fourth-round pick from Anaheim in 2025 as per TSN’s Pierre LeBrun. Vaakanainen was once picked by Boston Bruins in the first round back in 2017 but hasn’t been much of an offensive force with just 25 points over his career so far.
This trade helps the Rangers clear $12 million off their salary cap after also waiving Barclay Goodrow earlier this year. General manager Chris Drury wants more flexibility for future trades and free-agent signings, making moves like trading Trouba essential steps toward reshaping their roster.
In your opinion, do you think these changes will help both teams improve?
