The New York Rangers are eyeing a potential trade that could bring them a star forward while sending their captain elsewhere. According to a trade proposal on the PuckPedia site’s PuckGM tool, one suggestion involves the Rangers acquiring Frank Vatrano from the Anaheim Ducks.
Proposed Trade:
Rangers receive:
- Frank Vatrano
Ducks receive:
- Jacob Trouba
- 2025 first-round pick
- 2026 sixth-round pick
This trade would mark a significant move for the Rangers as they look to strengthen their forward group by bringing back Vatrano, who previously played for them in the 2021-22 season before signing with the Ducks.
Vatrano could serve as a middle-six forward and enhance the team’s offensive capabilities. Throughout his NHL career, he has played 564 games, tallying 160 goals and 111 assists for a total of 271 points.
On the other hand, Trouba, the Rangers’ captain, has been mentioned in trade rumors recently. With just one year remaining on his contract, his future in New York is uncertain.
The Ducks could utilize Trouba to enhance their defense and potentially trade him for more assets at the deadline. Last season, Trouba participated in 69 games for the Rangers, recording 3 goals and 19 assists.
Rangers general manager Chris Drury addressed Trouba’s trade rumors, noting that despite discussions, no deal occurred, partly due to Trouba’s no-trade clause, which he used to block a proposed trade to the Detroit Red Wings.
Drury emphasized that he maintains a positive relationship with Trouba, valuing his role as captain and leader in the locker room.
Vatrano, meanwhile, is entering the final year of his contract, and his name has surfaced in trade talks as the deadline approaches. However, he expressed a desire to stay with the Ducks, stating, “I don’t want to play anywhere else.
I see how good we’re going to be next year and in the years to come, so I want to be part of the solution.” He is expected to play alongside Robby Fabbri and Ryan Strome this season.
