It’s been awhile, but the Rangers will put their “C” on the jersey of Jacob Trouba next season.
On Tuesday, the team announced Trouba will be the first player in four years to hold the heavy responsibility of team captain.
The 28-year-old contributed one goal and four assists during the Rangers’ 2021-22 postseason run. With the veteran defenseman’s help, the team reached the Eastern Conference final for the first time since 2015.
For Trouba, he becomes the 28th captain in franchise history and first since defenseman Ryan McDonagh did the honors from 2014 to 2018.
Trouba was one of six alternate captains last year for the Rangers. The group included Artemi Panarin, Chris Kreider, Mika Zibanejad, Barclay Goodrow and Ryan Strome (who signed with the Ducks last month).
Trouba is entering his fourth season with the Rangers, after landing in New York via trade in the summer of 2019.
General manager Chris Drury explained why he made this choice:
“We all think Jacob is the perfect choice for captain for many reasons. Certainly since the moment he got here, he has continued to grow as a leader within the organization. Things he does on the ice, off the ice, behind the scenes, you name it. He’s the perfect role model for our young guys, for our older guys, for our veterans. He just chooses to do everything right day in and day out. We’re thrilled he’s going to be our captain.“
Trouba is known throughout the NHL as a heavy hitter. The type of hockey player that can put opponents into the boards. He’s a throwback to the 80’s and 90’s with his style of play.
And now, with the Rangers positioning themselves to take the next step in their pursuit of a Stanley Cup, they’ve Trouba as their guy to lead the way.
Main Image: Jeanine Leech / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Anthony Rushing is on Twitter @TonyRushingNY
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