New York Rangers center Vincent Trocheck is emerging as a key trade target as the NHL approaches its March 8th deadline, potentially setting the market value for comparable players, according to multiple reports. The 32-year-aged, fresh off a gold medal win with the United States at the recent Olympics, has registered 12 goals and 36 points in 43 games this season.
The Rangers’ willingness to move Trocheck signals a significant shift in direction for the team, which announced in January its intention to undergo a “restructuring.” This move follows the earlier trade of forward Artemi Panarin to the Los Angeles Kings, a deal completed before the Olympic break after the Rangers held him out of the lineup during negotiations. According to TSN’s Chris Johnston, the Rangers are “likely” to deal Trocheck, potentially establishing a benchmark for center valuations across the league.
Trocheck is in the fourth year of a seven-year, $39.375 million contract, carrying an annual average value of $5.625 million. This contract length differentiates him from a simple rental player, offering potential suitors a longer-term asset. However, Trocheck does possess a modified no-trade clause, allowing him to submit a list of 12 teams to which he would not accept a trade.
The Calgary Flames are reportedly monitoring the situation, with indications they may wait to observe what the Rangers receive for Trocheck before trading their own center, Nazem Kadri, in an attempt to maximize their return. Darren Dreger of TSN previously reported on Calgary’s strategy.
The Rangers’ decision to retool comes after a disappointing season, currently placing them near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings. The team hired Mike Sullivan as head coach last summer, a move that Johnston suggests signaled an expectation for immediate contention, making the current course correction even more notable.
While Trocheck has been a productive player for the Rangers, ranking third on the team in points with 36, the organization appears committed to its restructuring plan. The team has not publicly commented on specific trade discussions beyond acknowledging the overall direction of the franchise.
