Jacob Trouba makes more enemies in New York with latest statement

The New York Rangers enter the new season and captain Jacob Trouba is leading the way. Trade rumours surrounded the star defenseman and got out of hand when a deal was said to be sending him to the Detroit Red Wings, however, the blue liner owns a 15-team no-trade clause and allegedly blocked the move. Signed through next season at a cap hit of $8 million, Trouba’s no-movement clause shifted to a 15-team no-trade clause on July 1.

“I had good communication with the organization throughout. I don’t really have much else to comment on,” Trouba said of the off-season rumours. “There were a lot of things that were said and snowballed. …You’re going to have to find out where they came from. If you find out, let me know.”

He did set the record straight on his actual feelings.

“I love living here. I love New York. My family loves it here, as everybody is now aware of. I’m happy to be here and excited to be back.”

Since the trade chatter got loud and Trouba stayed put, fans in New York have been divided on how to feel about the captain, with some saying that he should get booed on the ice when home opener at the Madison Square Garden rolls around.

Trouba surely didn’t help himself with those already frustrated fans when he spoke about the window closing for the current Rangers’ core.

“In all likelihood this will probably be the last crack for this core. I don’t think it’s a secret by any means.”

Trouba is 30 and has two years left on his current contract, making $8 million against the cap through the 2025-26 season. The rest of the Rangers’ core, which includes Artemi Panarin, Mika Zibanejad, Chris Kreider and Vincent Trocheck, who are all over the age of 30.

Last season, Trouba recorded 22 points in 69 games and added another seven points in 16 Stanley Cup Playoff games.

The focus shifts to this season as now Trouba has made it clear that the clock is ticking to find success for the Rangers.