Jacob Trouba is experiencing a renewed sense of enjoyment playing for the Anaheim Ducks, a contrast to his difficult last seasons with the New York Rangers. On Tuesday night, Trouba contributed his ninth goal of the season during Anaheim’s 4-2 win over the Seattle Kraken, helping the Ducks secure their ninth victory in 11 games. As the season approaches its final stretch with 26 games remaining, Trouba is closing in on matching his career-high 11 goals, set with the Rangers in 2021-22.
Trouba’s turn in form stands out given his previous year, when he scored only one goal in 77 games split between the Rangers and Ducks. Observing this shift, Trouba openly admitted in a postgame interview that he’s playing more freely and thoroughly enjoying his time on the ice more than he has in several years, a sentiment reflected in his improved on-ice performance.
Improved Atmosphere and Team Dynamics in Anaheim
Trouba credited the positive change to the environment at Anaheim, describing a refreshing feeling of showing up to practice with enthusiasm and smiling. He praised the younger teammates for their energy and the fun atmosphere they bring to the team, implying this has significantly contributed to his revived attitude. The Ducks currently hold a playoff spot, positioned third in the Pacific Division with 63 points, offering a far more appealing competitive context than the struggling Rangers.
Another benefit for Trouba has been his partnership with Team USA Olympian Jackson Lacombe. Trouba has logged over 477 minutes at even strength alongside Lacombe—the most time with any defensive partner this season. Their chemistry on the ice is notable, with Trouba acknowledging Lacombe’s smart positioning and consistent defensive support as instrumental in his own strong play.
Trouba’s Public Criticism of Former Team the New York Rangers
Trouba’s comments on having more fun serve as a subtle critique of his final years in New York, during which rumors, injuries, and inconsistent play clouded his tenure. After the Rangers’ general manager Chris Drury threatened to place Trouba on waivers in late 2024, Trouba waived his 15-team no-trade clause and accepted the trade to Anaheim, bringing an end to his six-year stint as a key figure in the Rangers’ lineup.
This season, Trouba has not hesitated to take jabs at his former side. In January, during the Rangers’ trip to Anaheim, he played circus music in the Ducks’ locker room while New York media waited outside—a move widely interpreted as a pointed dig. Trouba’s offhand remark during his introductory Anaheim press conference last season, stating
“It’s a rite of passage to get fired at MSG,”
further showed his strained relationship with his previous team and its fanbase.
Rangers Fanbase Reacts to Trouba’s Remarks
Trouba’s candid comments have drawn criticism from Rangers supporters, who highlight his role during two Eastern Conference Final appearances and the franchise’s best regular-season record when he was captain. Despite these accomplishments, many fans remain displeased with his recent disparaging attitude toward the team. One fan tweeted,
“I really can’t think of a Ranger/former Ranger that I despise as much as Jacob Trouba. Those couple of years he’s talking about? They include the best regular season record in Rangers franchise history and two trips to the ECF. Yeah, no fun there.”
— Eric Kohn 🥃
Trouba’s sizable seven-year, $8 million annual contract and variable playoff performances contributed to his polarizing reputation in New York. While he was a central contributor—including captaining the 2023-24 Rangers team to the Presidents’ Trophy and earning the Mark Messier NHL Leadership Award—his postseason play was sometimes criticized, particularly during New York’s 2024 playoff run.
Challenges Faced During Trouba’s Final Season with the Rangers
Trouba endured a significant broken ankle in 2024, complicated by a kidney bean-sized fragment detaching from the bone. Though he managed one goal and seven points over 16 playoff games, his overall impact was hindered. His defensive errors, such as a misplay leading to a first-period goal against Florida in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Final, were seen as costly and contributed to the Rangers’ elimination.
Analysts highlighted questionable decisions on ice, with one detailed critique explaining how Trouba’s attempt to check a player without the puck left him out of position and resulted in interference penalties, undermining his defensive reliability.
The Future Outlook for Trouba and the Rangers
Considering Trouba’s struggles in New York and the Ducks’ current momentum, separation appears mutually beneficial. Trouba’s improved morale and performance in Anaheim demonstrate how a change of scenery can positively affect a player’s career trajectory. The Ducks’ playoff prospects contrast starkly with the Rangers’ ongoing challenges, underscoring the broader impact that team context can have on individual success.
For Trouba, the positive influence of teammates like Jackson Lacombe and a more vibrant team atmosphere will likely sustain his resurgence. For the Rangers, rebuilding efforts continue as they navigate a tough season without one of their former leaders.
Trouba: “If I’m gonna be honest I’m having a little more fun than I had the last couple years” 👀 https://t.co/qwhlcFqz74 pic.twitter.com/RWrSYQiYsR
— NHLonTNT (@NHL_On_TNT) February 4, 2026
I’ve been told this was Jacob Trouba’s doing 😂
Rangers media happened to be waiting outside the locker room at that moment, and I’m totally sure it wasn’t related at all, right?#FlyTogether https://t.co/XFIO8tmw1K
— Zach Cavanagh (@ZachCav) January 19, 2026
I really can't think of a Ranger/former Ranger that I despise as much as Jacob Trouba.
Those couple of years he's talking about? They include the best regular season record in Rangers franchise history and two trips to the ECF. Yeah, no fun there.
He wasn't as good as he… https://t.co/9WGcjBIoc2
— Eric Kohn 🥃 (@iEricKohn) February 4, 2026
Just to dive into this questionable decision by Trouba here a bit more:
Aside from it being the wrong decision because it takes him out of position as the RHD, he's also trying to check a player that doesn't have the puck, which is interference.
— Stat Boy Steven 🇳🇱🇮🇪 (@StatBoy_Steven) June 2, 2024
