‘I could care less’: Rangers’ Star $56 Million Defenseman Clears Air on Trade Rumors
New York Rangers captain Jacob Trouba has addressed the trade rumors surrounding him.
This summer, Trouba’s name surfaced in trade talks, and he reportedly used his no-trade clause to block a potential deal. Despite the team exploring a trade for Trouba, who’s entering the final year of his seven-year, $56 million contract, the defenseman insists there are no hard feelings about the rumors.
“Not even a little bit. I could care less,” Trouba commented.
He emphasized that trade speculation is just part of the business, and he’s not upset by it.
“That’s life – contracts, hockey, business. I knew this could happen in the summer. It’s not surprising. It was part of the deal when I signed. This is how pro sports work. I can be traded anytime now, and I’m aware of that,” Trouba explained.
His no-trade clause allows him to submit a list of 15 NHL teams to which he cannot be traded.
Trouba Wants to Stay in New York
Despite the trade rumors, Trouba is eager to remain with the Rangers and hopes to sign a new long-term contract after his current one expires. He expressed his desire to stay in New York and his love for the city and team.
“I want to be here. I love living in New York, and so does my family,” Trouba said, adding that there are no bad feelings, and he’s now focused on the upcoming 2024-25 NHL season.
Last season, Trouba recorded 22 points (3 goals, 19 assists) in 69 games.
Rangers GM Comments on Trouba Trade Rumors
Though Trouba was involved in trade discussions all summer, no deal was finalized. Rangers General Manager Chris Drury reassured that there’s no tension between him and Trouba.
“We’ve had multiple conversations over the summer. He knows where he stands with me, and I value him as both a player and a leader. He’s been a great captain here,” Drury remarked. “There’s a lot that comes with being the Rangers’ captain, especially in New York. I’m excited to have him back and ready for training camp.”
Trouba joined the Rangers on June 17, 2019, following a trade from the Winnipeg Jets and was named captain on August 9, 2022. The Rangers will kick off their 2024-25 season on October 9 against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
