Rangers fans are eagerly awaiting the trade deadline, as the team's future hangs in the balance. With the New York Rangers now on their Olympic break, all eyes are on general manager Chris Drury and his potential moves. The recent trade of Artemi Panarin to the Los Angeles Kings has left fans questioning Drury's decision-making, and the upcoming Vincent Trocheck trade could either restore their trust or further alienate them.
Drury's Misstep with Panarin
The initial announcement of Panarin's departure signaled the end of his time in New York, a move that fans deemed a mistake. By signaling his departure, Drury inadvertently handed other teams leverage, knowing they didn't need to offer a substantial deal as Drury was desperate to trade him. Panarin's full no-move clause further emphasized his power in negotiations, allowing him to dictate his destination. The trade, which resulted in the acquisition of Liam Greentree, a player who may not live up to expectations, left fans frustrated and questioning Drury's ability to manage trades effectively.
Trocheck's Value as a Trade Asset
In contrast, Vincent Trocheck, a center with a reasonable cap hit of $5.625 million, is a more valuable trade asset. With three years remaining on his contract, playoff teams are eager to acquire him. Unlike Panarin, Trocheck's 12-team no-trade list means he can be traded to over half the league, sparking a bidding war. His physical play and upcoming participation in the Olympics make him a highly sought-after player, and his availability as the best player on the market adds to his value.
The Impact of the Trade on the Team's Future
The Trocheck trade could significantly impact the team's retooling process. A successful trade could provide the Rangers with assets to improve their playoff chances as early as next season. Conversely, an underwhelming trade, similar to the Panarin deal, could set back their progress for years. Players like Mika Zibanejad and J.T. Miller, who could also fetch decent returns, suggest that Drury's best strategy is to move Trocheck now to maximize his value.
Drury's Chance to Regain Fan Trust
The current season has been a disaster, and Drury's reputation as a manager has suffered. The team's decline over the past two seasons has left fans skeptical about Drury's ability to turn things around. However, a successful Trocheck trade could be the turning point that wins over fans' support. By demonstrating his ability to make strategic trades and rebuild the team, Drury can begin to regain the trust of the fans, who are eager to see the Rangers return to contention.
