Anaheim Ducks

Rangers Declined Taking Ducks D-Man as Part of Trouba Trade

The New York Rangers were offered Cam Fowler in the trade that saw Jacob Trouba moved but they declined. Why?

by
Jim Parsons
December 10, 2024

The New York Rangers traded captain Jacob Trouba to the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for defenseman Urho Vaakanainen and a fourth-round draft pick this weekend. It was a dramatic ordeal that Trouba admits threw him off more most of the season, and insiders are suggesting had detached him from the rest of the team when he knew the Rangers wanted him gone. Ultimately, the Rangers got their wish; however, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman revealed on the 32 Thoughts podcast that this deal might have looked very different.

“I heard that Anaheim wanted Fowler in this deal. I have no doubt Fowler wanted to be in this deal,” Friedman said, referencing Ducks defenseman Cam Fowler. Fowler is reportedly eager to join a contender and has been at the center of trade speculation in recent months. He would have jumped at the chance should the Rangers have been open to it.

Despite his interest, the Rangers opted for a package that maintained their cap flexibility, moving Trouba’s $8 million annual cap hit without bringing on Fowler’s $6.5 million cap charge.

What’s Next for Fowler, and Will He Be Traded?

This isn’t the first time Fowler’s name has come up in trade talks. Friedman previously noted that the Ducks and Fowler are working collaboratively to explore his future. “I don’t think this is a negative. I believe the player and the team are working together on this,” Friedman said in September. As for where things go from here and if there are interested teams out there, that much is unclear.

Cam Fowler Trouba Trade rumors — Cam Fowler was talked about during the Trouba trade with the Rangers

For the Rangers, this move aligns with their goal of opening cap space while acquiring a younger, cost-effective defenseman in Vaakanainen. Meanwhile, Anaheim retains Fowler, whose leadership and puck-moving abilities remain invaluable as the team rebuilds.

The trade leaves fans and insiders wondering what’s next for Fowler, as his desire to compete for a championship may prompt further discussions about his future with the Ducks.

Next: Tough Ducks D-Man Pegged “Wild Card” in Rumored Oilers Trade