Rangers GM Chris Drury Looks to Regroup After Jacob Trouba Trade
The New York Rangers are taking a moment to assess their options after trading captain Jacob Trouba to the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for defenseman Urho Vaakanainen and a fourth-round draft pick. While the deal provides the Rangers with significant salary cap flexibility, GM Chris Drury has emphasized the importance of letting the team adjust before making additional moves.
—
Drury’s Plan: Evaluate Before More Moves
Speaking to reporters, Drury highlighted the need for a measured approach following recent roster changes:
> “The team’s been through a lot the last couple weeks. We’d like to let the dust settle a little bit.”
Drury is also focused on evaluating the performance of rookie Victor Mancini and recent acquisition Urho Vaakanainen, as the team seeks to stabilize its defensive lineup amid a 2-6-0 slump.
—
Financial Flexibility for Future Moves
Trading Trouba’s $8 million AAV contract for Vaakanainen’s $1.1 million salary frees up considerable cap space. While Drury didn’t rule out more trades, he suggested that significant additions might wait until closer to the NHL Trade Deadline in March.
The Rangers could potentially pursue:
A top-six forward to bolster their offense.
Another defenseman to solidify their blue line.
—
Addressing Trouba and Goodrow Departures
Drury defended the handling of Trouba’s trade and Barclay Goodrow’s waiver placement over the summer. Goodrow, who was claimed by the San Jose Sharks, and Trouba both expressed displeasure with how their situations unfolded.
> “It’s my job, and 31 other GMs’ jobs, to try and do everything we can to help our team. … I’m not trying to mess with players.”
Despite the controversy, Drury maintained respect for both players and emphasized that the timing of Trouba’s trade and Igor Shesterkin’s $92 million contract extension was coincidental.
—
A Brighter Outlook
The Rangers secured a much-needed win over the Pittsburgh Penguins on Friday, providing a glimmer of hope as they prepare for upcoming games against the Seattle Kraken and Chicago Blackhawks. These matchups could help the team regain momentum in the Metropolitan Division race.
Drury appears ready to make additional moves if the team’s struggles persist, but for now, the focus is on stability and evaluating recent changes.
