The New York Rangers face several key decisions this offseason, one of the biggest being whether to appoint a new captain — and if so, who should take on the role.
Following Jacob Trouba’s trade to the Anaheim Ducks on December 6, the Rangers played the remainder of the season without a captain. Leadership duties were handled by alternate captains Mika Zibanejad, Adam Fox, Artemi Panarin, and Chris Kreider.
It’s possible the Rangers continue with the same setup — four alternates and no captain — as they did between 2018 (after Ryan McDonagh) and 2022 (before Trouba was named captain). That approach has precedent within the organization.
However, general manager Chris Drury, himself a former Rangers captain from 2008 to 2011, seems to favor a more traditional leadership structure. He might also be considering changes to the current leadership core, and for various reasons, it appears unlikely that any of the four returning alternates will be promoted to captain.
That could pave the way for new voices to emerge — particularly Vincent Trocheck and his close friend J.T. Miller, who both took on bigger leadership roles after Trouba’s departure.
Trocheck, who turns 32 next season and has three years left on his contract, has a natural leadership presence and willingly steps into that role both on and off the ice. When asked on breakup day about handling the responsibilities of leadership and any pressure it might bring, his answer stood out:
“I wouldn’t even look at it as pressure. I want to – I want to be part of the reason we do right the ship,” Trocheck said.
Reasons why Vicent Trocheck should be named Rangers captain
Team-First Mentality
Trocheck plays for the crest on the front of the jersey, not for personal glory. He’s not seeking attention — he’s the one doing the gritty, thankless jobs. Whether it’s battling along the boards, blocking shots, hustling on the backcheck, or standing up for a teammate, Trocheck is always leading the charge. That’s leadership through action — it’s simply who he is.
TROCHECK OPENS THE SCORING AND THEN CHAOS ENSUES 😱 pic.twitter.com/uuB3GahIkT
— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) May 25, 2024
He brings a spark to the game, willing to stir the pot to energize his team — a competitive edge that not every player brings. Even during tough stretches, Trocheck owns his mistakes, supports his teammates, and stays composed under pressure — all qualities of a captain.
With relentless drive and unwavering passion, Trocheck plays with visible emotion. He’s the embodiment of what it means to be a heart-and-soul Ranger.
Vocal Leader
Whether in the locker room, on the bench, or speaking to the media, Trocheck is a trusted and respected presence within the Rangers organization. Following Trouba’s exit, he naturally stepped into the role of team spokesman. Even during the most difficult moments of the season, Trocheck didn’t shy away from the media, answering tough questions with honesty and transparency.
By taking on that challenging responsibility, he shielded his teammates from having to face the tough questions themselves, showing a level of selflessness that hasn’t gone unnoticed. His teammates deeply value that trait.
On the ice, Trocheck is a constant source of direction and energy—motivating his teammates, mentoring younger players, and getting under the skin of opponents. His intensity stands out across the roster.
His long-standing friendship with Miller is another positive. As a respected veteran, Trocheck would provide unwavering support, and together they’d form the core of the Rangers’ leadership. With Trocheck in a leading role, Miller would likely feel more at ease, allowing them to set the tone for the team side by side.
Highly Respected
Vincent Trocheck is admired not only within the Rangers’ locker room but across the entire NHL. Former coaches have consistently praised his dedication, competitive edge, and team-first mentality. Whether in Florida, Carolina, or now New York, Trocheck has earned a reputation as a dependable and trustworthy presence, both on and off the ice.
Within the Rangers’ locker room, that respect is just as evident. His teammates look up to him—not only because he’s vocal, but because he consistently delivers with his performance. Trocheck earns his accolades through his play, and when he speaks, his words carry weight.
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