By ETT 
Rangers Trade Trouba To Ducks For Vaakanainen, Shaking Up Defensive Landscape
In a surprising move, the New York Rangers have traded defenseman Jacob Trouba to the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for defenseman Urho Vaakanainen. The trade marks a significant shake-up of the Rangers’ defensive landscape, as Trouba was a key part of their top-pair.
The Details of the Trade
| Player | Team |
|---|---|
| Jacob Trouba | Anaheim Ducks |
| Urho Vaakanainen | New York Rangers |
The Rangers will also receive a 2023 second-round pick from the Ducks as part of the deal. The trade is expected to be finalized on July 1, when the NHL’s free agency period begins.
Trouba’s Time in New York
Trouba was acquired by the Rangers in a trade with the Winnipeg Jets in 2019. He quickly became a key part of their defense, playing a physical and shutdown role. In three seasons with the Rangers, Trouba recorded 11 goals and 55 assists in 189 games.
However, Trouba’s time in New York was not without controversy. He was suspended for three games in 2020 for a hit on Colorado Avalanche forward Nazem Kadri. He was also criticized for his play in the playoffs, as the Rangers lost in the second round in both 2021 and 2022.
Vaakanainen’s Arrival in New York
Vaakanainen is a 23-year-old defenseman who has spent the last four seasons with the Boston Bruins. He is a smooth-skating puck-mover with good offensive instincts. In 124 career NHL games, Vaakanainen has recorded 4 goals and 15 assists.
Vaakanainen is expected to play a significant role on the Rangers’ defense next season. He is likely to be paired with Adam Fox, who is one of the best young defensemen in the NHL. The Rangers are hoping that Vaakanainen can provide some of the offensive punch that they have been lacking from their defense.
The Impact of the Trade
The trade of Trouba is a significant shake-up of the Rangers’ defense. Trouba was a key part of their top-pair, and his departure will leave a big hole to fill. However, the Rangers are getting a young, talented defenseman in Vaakanainen, who has the potential to be a top-pair player himself.
The trade also has implications for the Ducks. Trouba is a veteran defenseman who can provide leadership and stability to their young team. He is also a physical presence who can help them to defend against opposing forwards.
Conclusion
The trade of Trouba to the Ducks is a significant development for both teams. The Rangers are losing a key part of their defense, but they are getting a young, talented player in return. The Ducks are getting a veteran defenseman who can help them to compete for a playoff spot.
The trade is a reminder that the NHL is a constantly changing league. Teams are always looking to improve their rosters, and the trade deadline is a time when many deals are made. The Rangers and Ducks are both hoping that this trade will help them to take the next step in their respective journeys.
