NHL Rumors: Insider claims Jacob Trouba and Rangers have decided on captain's future in New York

NHL insider Arthur Staple of The Athletic says the New York Rangers have made a decision on the future of Jacob Trouba. Trouba is the Rangers captain and has been the subject of trade rumors

Trouba had reportedly blocked a deal with the Detroit Red Wings, as he put them on his no-trade list. After that happened, many wondered when a trade would happen.

But, according to Staple, he expects Trouba to play for the Rangers next season as he says the sides are starting to end fences.

"According to a league source, there has been at least one conversation between Chris Drury and Trouba in the last few weeks and while there was surely some fence-mending on the team’s part for the rumors that were briefly out there, Trouba’s a pro and he knows how to handle situations for the good of the team without letting his own emotions get in the way; guessing that’s part of the reason they name you a captain in the first place. So, even with two-plus months until camp, don’t toss those No. 8 sweaters," Staple wrote (per The Athletic).

Trouba has two years left on his deal that will pay him $8 million per season. If he does remain with the Rangers as Staple expects, he will remain a top defenseman for the NHL and one of their leaders on and off the ice.

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Jacob Trouba likely to be traded next year

With Staple thinking Trouba will be back with the Rangers next season, the insider thinks the trade will happen next summer.

Staple believes Trouba having one year left on his deal will have more teams interested in him which is why he expects the trade to happen then.

"Now, if you want to talk next summer, then I’d say the chances of a Trouba trade go up from “nearly zero” to “nearly certain,” Staple said.

Staple suggests that Jacob Trouba would become more appealing to NHL teams with only one year left on his contract. His wife would also be done with her medical residency, which has been a key reason why he has blocked trades.

The Rangers have several key free agents next offseason, so New York will need to clear cap space to sign them, which is why Trouba will likely be moved next year.

Jacob Trouba tallied three goals and 19 assists, totaling 22 points in 69 games with the Rangers last season.