New York Rangers captain Jacob Trouba has addressed the recent trade rumors surrounding him.
This summer, Trouba’s name surfaced in trade talks, and he reportedly prevented a deal from going through, which he is entitled to do because of his no-trade clause.
Despite the Rangers exploring a trade for him as he enters the final year of his seven-year, $56 million contract, Trouba has stated that he holds no resentment regarding the speculation.
“Not even a little bit. I could care less,” Trouba said.
He emphasized that trade rumors are simply part of the business, and he doesn’t bear any ill will.
“That’s life, contracts, hockey, business – whatever you want to call it. I anticipated this summer’s situation. It didn’t catch me off guard; it was part of the negotiations at that time. It’s just how pro sports operate. I understand I could be traded at any moment, and I’ve known that since signing my contract.”
Trouba mentioned that his mindset remains unchanged, acknowledging that many NHL players could be traded at any time, which is part of the industry.
His no-trade clause allows him to provide a list of 15 NHL teams he cannot be traded to.
Trouba Wants to Remain in New York
Despite being in the final year of his contract and facing trade rumors, Jacob Trouba is eager to stay with the Rangers long-term. He hopes to secure another multi-year deal with the team this off-season, expressing his desire to remain in New York.
“I want to be here; I love living here, and my family loves it here, as everyone knows,” Trouba stated.
He reiterated that he holds no resentment about the trade discussions and is focused on the upcoming 2024-25 NHL season. Last year, Trouba recorded 3 goals and 19 assists for a total of 22 points in 69 games.
Rangers GM Discusses Trouba Trade Rumors
Although Jacob Trouba was the subject of trade rumors throughout the summer, no deal was finalized. Rangers general manager Chris Drury expressed that he and Trouba are on good terms and there is no resentment.
“We’ve had several discussions over the summer about various topics,” Drury said. “He knows exactly how I feel about him as a player and leader. He has done an excellent job as captain.”
Drury acknowledged the complexities that come with being the captain of the Rangers, especially in New York, and expressed excitement for Trouba’s return and the upcoming training camp. He noted that Trouba had a strong offseason in terms of training.
Trouba has been with the Rangers since being acquired from the Winnipeg Jets on June 17, 2019, and was named captain on August 9, 2022.
New York kicks off its 2024-25 NHL season on the road against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 9.