In a shocking development, the New York Rangers may be looking to go in a different direction. It has been reported that Chris Kreider and captain Jacob Trouba may be on the trade block in the early part of this season.
In the aftermath of their 6-2 loss in Edmonton on Saturday, the Rangers have made it very clear they are interested in making moves and shaking up their roster.
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) November 25, 2024
Among the names indicated are Chris Kreider and Jacob Trouba, although other options will be considered.
As things start to unravel, the rumors circulating could be true or could turn out to be completely false. Are we heading toward a generational shift?
Moving On?
It is hard to believe that the Rangers would move anyone at this point in time. The season has been rolling around like a roller coaster, with it being more positive than negative. But, the organizations higher-ups belief that it might be time for a change.
Both Trouba and, Kreider more specifically, have been a part of the main core of this franchise for a number of years. They are a part of the leadership group, and each have a large role on this team. To hear their names going on the trade block is a shock.
Is it really a necessity to move them now, with the season still going according to plan. The Rangers are not a lottery team through the first 19 games of the year, they have not been plagued with injuries, nor have they changed any personnel behind the bench. So why the sudden change?
Will it Help?
Kreider currently sits at second on the team for goals with nine and has yet to add an assist. He is on his way to a potential 30-goal season, and at 33 years old, he still uses his speed like he did a decade ago.
Trouba has had a bit of a revolving door with a defensive partner. He leads all defensemen in shots on goal with 41 but has yet to contribute a goal. These rumors swirled all summer long, with many thinking that he would have gotten traded then, but he instead stayed on the Rangers.
Both members are a huge part of the leadership group, and no matter what the return would be if they were traded, that cannot be replaced. Whether or not it will have an immediate impact or not is unknown, but if it is necessary, it is leaning toward not really.