Rangers to make big mistake with recently acquired Trouba

From the day the New York Rangers unsigned restricted free agent defenseman Jacob Trouba from the Winnipeg Jets, it seemed inevitable that the two sides would could to terms on a long-term deal. But, nearly a month later and with a potentially ugly salary arbitration case on the horizon, the two sides are nowhere close to putting pen to paper.

In fact, Rangers insider Larry Brooks of the New York Post is now reporting that the Trouba camp could elect to wait things out and see how things play out in arbitration. Should Trouba go unsigned before July 25th he’ll be eligible to receive a one-year deal in arbitration, a potentially disastrous situation for the Rangers. After all, this is a player that the see in their long-term future, a player for whom they paid a steep price. Losing him after one season, again, would be disastrous.

From Brooks’ column for the Post:

Kurt Overhardt, who represents the defenseman, and general manager Jeff Gorton are conducting substantive, ongoing negotiations that are hardly just for show. The Rangers most certainly want to get this done, and it appears Trouba is on the same track.

But …

But if this drags on and Trouba wants to bet on himself, he could theoretically turn a seven-year contract into a nine-year commitment and guarantee himself an extra $15 million or so of owner Jim Dolan’s treasure chest. It is possible.

Of course, Trouba could always leave the Rangers after a year as an unrestricted free agent, as well. Either way you look at things, the Rangers take a HUGE hit unless they can lock up Trouba prior to arbitration. 

The 25 year old Trouba is likely looking at a long term deal in the $7.5+ million range.