The New York Rangers are in a prime position to compete for the Stanley Cup, and one proposed trade involves acquiring a star forward in exchange for their captain.
Using PuckPedia’s PuckGM tool, a user suggested a major deal where the Rangers would trade for Anaheim Ducks forward. In return, Anaheim would receive two draft picks and Rangers captain Jacob Trouba, potentially using him as a trade asset at the deadline.
Vatrano, who previously played for the Rangers in the 2021-22 season, could strengthen their middle-six forwards and provide additional scoring. The 30-year-old forward has amassed 271 points (160 goals, 111 assists) over 564 NHL games. He originally joined the Rangers via a trade but later signed with the Ducks as a free agent.
Trouba, who has one year remaining on his contract, has been the subject of trade rumors. The defenseman could help solidify Anaheim’s blue line and serve as a valuable trade piece at the deadline. Last season, Trouba played 69 games for New York, tallying 22 points (3 goals, 19 assists).
Rangers GM Discusses Trade Rumors Involving Trouba
There were numerous trade rumors surrounding Trouba this offseason, but no deal materialized.
A major reason for this was Trouba’s no-trade clause, as he reportedly blocked a potential move to the Detroit Red Wings. During the Rangers’ training camp, general manager Chris Drury addressed the media, stating that there are no lingering issues.
“Jacob and I communicate regularly, as a GM and captain should,” Drury said. “I’d also include coach Peter Laviolette in those discussions. Being the captain, he leads our dressing room and the leadership group. We’ve had several conversations over the summer on various topics.”
Drury added, “He knows exactly where we stand with each other and what I think of him as both a player and leader. He’s done a great job here. There’s a lot involved in being captain, especially for the Rangers in New York. We’re excited to have him back, and I know he had a great offseason in terms of training.”
Trouba has been with the Rangers since being traded from the Winnipeg Jets in the summer of 2019.
Vatrano Entering Final Year of Deal
Frank Vatrano’s name surfaced in trade discussions over the summer, and with him entering the final year of his contract, his name is expected to come up more as the trade deadline approaches. If the Ducks aren’t in playoff contention by then, it’s likely the talented winger could be traded. However, Vatrano has expressed a strong desire to stay in Anaheim.
“I don’t want to play anywhere else,” Vatrano told NHL.com. “This is where I want to be. I can see the bigger picture and how good we’re going to be next year and in the future, and I want to be part of the solution.”
Vatrano is expected to play on a line with Robby Fabbri and Ryan Strome.
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