New York Rangers defenseman Jacob Trouba speaking to the media after a game.
Photo credit: Screenshot

After the New York Rangers playoff exit, many fans and media were critical of captain Jacob Trouba and now speculation has begun that the Rangers could buy him out.

The New York Rangers were eliminated from the Stanley Cup Playoffs by the Florida Panthers in the Eastern Conference Finals. During the series, the New York Rangers fans were very critical of the play and recklessness of Jacob Trouba.

We can debate how much Igor’s contract should be, we can debate how the stars played in the playoffs, we debate who we should trade for or sign

But we can all agree if Jacob Trouba is on the Rangers making 8 million in 24-25, the Rangers won’t win the Cup.

Yes or no?

A look into the analytical numbers from JFresh hockey shows that Jacob Trouba struggles heavily on defense. He also did not contribute offensively enough to offset his defensive lapses. This means his biggest two positives to being in the lineup are added leadership and physicality.

Physicality and leadership are qualities that can be found in many players throughout the NHL and at a lower price tag. This leads to the question should the New York Rangers part ways with Jacob Trouba?

Will the New York Rangers buyout Jacob Trouba’s contract?

Heading into the 2024 NHL offseason the New York Rangers have important decisions to make. With the negative on-ice impact that Jacob Trouba has and the controversy his hits can create some are discussing whether a buyout of Jacob Trouba’s contract is necessary.

I wonder if Drury would be hesitant to buy-out Trouba/Goodrow so there’s no dead money on the books in 2026 in the very strong free agent class.

What do yall think?

This would be a major decision for the New York Rangers they would be sacrificing salary cap space in a year where they are contenders for more room down the road. The preferred option would be a trade partner but sheltering Jacob Trouba in a lesser role might also have to do the trick if the buyout is too expensive.

As the offseason progresses there will likely be more news on the New York Rangers plan with Jacob Trouba which we will pass along to you as it breaks.